Beginner Birding
If you’re getting outside more and looking for something to do, birding can be an entertaining way to appreciate our world that was there all along.
Birding can be done anytime, anywhere. Birding is low-cost. All it takes is a bird guide, some binoculars and interest.
Our friends at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher have made a great video about birds in North Carolina.
First, find a good spot. It might be a wildlife area, a trail, or just sitting in your backyard. If it is a place where birds can find food and water, it can increase your chances of finding interesting species.
While you’re learning, the challenge will be identifying the bird you see and hear, but keep it up. After observing and picking out the common birds in your neighborhood, you’ll notice when something different comes your way.
Keep your guide nearby and flip through it for a couple of minutes each day. You’ll learn what birds you can find around you. The Audubon Society’s website is another excellent resource of articles for beginner birders.
If you’re more adventurous, pick a bird and go find it. Choose a bird from your guide that you’re reasonably sure lives nearby and seek it out.
How to enjoy bird watching:
1. Find a bird with your own eyes first, and then use your binoculars to have a closer look.
2. Be quiet because birds are easily startled. Birds hear much better than humans so it is almost impossible to sneak up on them.
3. Listen to their songs. Birds have distinctive chirps that can help you identify them.
