Things You Need for Birdwatching
Binoculars. Birds don’t like human presence. As a result, you will have to observe them from a relative great distance. But a pair of binoculars will allow you to admire them from up-close even if you are hundred of yards away.
Identification book. Wonder which species is which? Many bird species look very similar and can be distinguished only by tiny details. Unless you are an ornithologist or experienced birdwatcher, it is a good idea to purchase a good bird identification book to be able to determine which species you are admiring.
Proper clothing. To arrive to the right location, spot the birds you are interested the most and get them near enough to observe them can take quite some time. In fact, most birdwatching trips last hours. Comfortable clothing is therefore a must. Just be sure to avoid bright colours because you are highly unlikely to get close to any bird wearing bright orange or red clothing. Ideally, your clothing’s colours should blend with the environment.
Hides. Some birds are very shy and can detect the slightest movement hundreds of yards away. To be able to get nearer, grey, matte brown, etc. clothing and hiding behind the bushes may not be enough. Many birdwatchers therefore bring hides with them to be able to approach the birds unnoticed.
Camera. Why not capture the birds on a camera? Bird photography is quite challenging and requires a high quality camera but it also brings a lot of pleasure, especially when you capture the bird in the perfect moment.
Portable voice recorder. Bird species are sometimes easier to identify on the basis of their calls and songs than by their appearance. Portable voice recorder is therefore a good thing to take with you on your birdwatching trips.
Food and water. Birds prefer to stay away from people. As far as possible. The most spectacular birding places are in the wild, far away from the civilisation. When going to such places, you are therefore highly recommended not to forget to take enough food and water.
Insect repellent. Most birdwatchers prefer to go on birdwatching trips during the spring when the birds are most active and the nature is waking up from the winter sleep. But someone else is waking up during the spring – bloodsucking insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. Insect repellent can therefore be a life-saver.