Birding

Birds are all around us.

They’re huddling in the shrubs outside of our apartments, bopping around our backyards, and foraging at local parks and lakes. No matter where you live, birds are nearby, just waiting for you to notice them. And once you do, you might find it hard to stop. That’s because birding—the act of appreciating and observing birds—not only provides a new perspective on the natural world, but it also delivers an immense sense of joy and satisfaction. So what are you waiting for?

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How to Start Birding ID Tips and Skills In the Field

Getting Started

Did you look out your window and see a bird today? Hear one while running errands? Congratulations! You’re a birder. It really is that easy. Of course, you might want to know the name of those species, or where you can find more birds. If you do, check out below for some birding basics.

How to Start Birding

A beginner's guide to finding and appreciating birds.

Let's Do This

Identifying Birds

Putting names to the birds you see can be a rewarding experience. A successful ID is the goal, but the journey is just as important. By trying to identify a species, you get to know the bird and its habitat better—by watching its movements, noting its field marks, considering its call. Whether you’re curious about a backyard visitor or stumped by a shorebird, we have a wealth of ID tips and skills for birders of all levels.

Red-headed Woodpecker. Photo: Vance Solseth/51�� Photography Awards

ID Tips and Skills

From warblers to woodpeckers, let us help you figure out what you're seeing—or hearing.

Help Me Out

Birding Advice

A funny thing happens once you start birding: It becomes hard to stop. New target species, goal destinations, how to keep improving your skills—it can be both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. From tips on how to find elusive species to helpful tech and best practices for the field, our ever-growing collection of advice and stories will help you expand your experience.

Photo: Sydney Walsh/51��

In the Field

Whether searching for a certain species or planning your next big trip, we have you covered.

Get Out There

Essential Reading

Foster your love for birds by feeding them at home, and be sure to check out our recommendations for binoculars and other gear.

Bird Feeding and Care

Gear and Resources

The Birdist’s Rules of Birding

Contributor Nick Lund, aka The Birdist, regularly provides serious—as well as tongue-in-cheek—advice for new and experienced birders.

Learn the Rules

Most Recent Birding Stories

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Birdist Rule #57: It's Summer—Watch Out for Juveniles!

June 22, 2017 — Baby birds are about to be on the loose, but identifying them can be tricky.

The Birdist’s Rules of Birding

In Search of the Gray-headed Chickadee, the Most Mysterious Bird in the U.S.

June 21, 2017 — 51��’s chief scientist recounts his trek to the threatened Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, one of the last havens for one of the rarest birds in North America.

News

Teakettle, Cheeseburger . . . Pidaro? The Case for Using Real Words to Remember Bird Songs

June 20, 2017 — Some bird guides eschew words for more literal translations of a bird's song, but doing so ignores the point of mnemonic devices: aiding memory.

News

A Beginner’s Guide to Recording Bird Vocalizations

June 16, 2017 — Capturing songs and calls can open a whole new level of birding—but equipment can be daunting. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Gear