How to Go Bird Watching

Birdwatching has long been a relaxing and enjoyable pastime for many people. Whether it's the graceful soaring of an eagle or the animated quarreling of a group of sparrows competing for sunflower seed, birds have captured our imagination. The hobby is inexpensive and easy to get started.

Step 1: Purchase these simple tools:

• A modestly-price pair of binoculars, available at any discount department store.


• A basic bird field guide. They provide colorful pictures of each species, their basic descriptions and background information on where the different varieties of birds may be found.

Step 2: Create a habitat in your yard that will encourage birds to visit regularly.

• Provide a variety of feeders with an interesting array of food. In addition to standard birdseed, they will appreciate such tidbits as sunflower seeds and suet. The greater variety of edibles, the greater variety of birds you can expect to visit.


• Place a birdbath amidst your feeders. Not only will your visitors enjoy having a drink where they feed, but also birds love to flutter about in the water.


• Plant several colorful flowers in the area. Many birds are attracted to color. Hummingbirds, for example, seek out red blooms.

Step 3:  Gear your bird watching to the early morning hours when birds are most active.

Step 3: Be a quiet guest. Birds are easily alarmed, so try to keep your movements to a minimum. In time, they will become accustomed to your presence allowing you to get quite close.

Step 4: To expand your knowledge and enjoyment, venture beyond your yard to fields, meadows and patches of woods. These areas provide diverse food sources and tend to attract more birds. Locations including creeks and ponds are likely to provide the greatest variety.