Birdwatching: Five tips to get you started on your birdwatching journey

14 March 2023
By Alex James

Beginner birdwatching is the activity of observing and identifying birds in their natural habitats. It can be a fun and educational hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Here are our 'fab five' tips to get you started on your birding journey:

Invest in a good pair of binoculars: A good pair of binoculars will make it easier to spot and identify birds from a distance. Look for binoculars with a magnification of at least 7x and a lens diameter of at least 35mm.
Find a good location: Birds can be found in many different habitats, including parks, forests, wetlands, and even urban areas. Look for a location that has a variety of habitats and is known for bird activity.
Observe and listen: Look and listen for birds in their natural habitats. Pay attention to their behaviour, colours, and sounds. Use a field guide or birding app to help identify the birds you see.
Keep a record: Keep a record of the birds you see and where and when you saw them. This will help you track your progress and identify patterns in bird behaviour.
Join a birdwatching group: Joining a birdwatching group can be a great way to meet other birdwatchers, learn from more experienced birders, and discover new birding locations.

Remember to be respectful of the birds and their habitats. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Happy birding!

Roseate tern in flight, sun shining through its outstretched wings, blue sky with clouds in the background by Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

Coquet Island RSPB reserve, aerial view by David Wootton (rspb-images.com)

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