There are more than 45 million bird-watchers in the US, joining millions more general wildlife enthusiasts.
Bird watching is a pastime that offers so many benefits. It gets you outdoors, forces you to slow down and relax, and teaches you new things about the environment.
If you are new to bird watching, you might not know what gear and equipment you need to embrace this new passion. You can read all the birder books in the world but still not feel prepared for doing it in real life.
But never fear. This simple checklist has all the essentials you need for a successful bird-watching expedition.
Binoculars or Spotting Scope
If you remember to take only one item on this bird-watching checklist, make it a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope.
Binoculars are essential to identify birds. You need to get a close enough look to study their beak shapes, feather patterns, and feather colors. Misidentifying birds is far more likely when you are relying on your regular eyesight.
Buy a powerful yet compact pair you can wear around your neck and are light enough to hold for long periods of time.
Or, you could invest in a spotting scope which is rather like a telescope for landscapes.
DSLR Camera and Tripod
So, when you spot these amazing birds through your telescope or spotting scope, what do you often want to do next? Take a photo of the bird, of course! If you are lucky enough to catch it.
Opt for a high-powered DSLR camera with a tripod and a telescopic lens of at least 200mm. You may need a lens hood or UV filter if you are going bird-watching on a sunny day.
Camouflage Tent
For the lucky birders who do not need to stray too far from home, you can bird-watch from your cozy backyard shed or even in your house! And if this is how you like to bird-watch, there are plenty of attractive bird baths you can buy from places like Nature Niche and Wild Bird Store Online.
But for the rest of you, who bird-watch out in the open, you will need to make more of an effort to look inconspicuous.
Many birders can (and do) hide in or behind bushes. But if this is not an option for you, grab a small camouflage tent (or bird watching hide) for your next trip. They are lightweight and easy to set up.
Expedition Notebook (And Pen!)
How are you going to brag to all your birder friends if you do not remember all the types of birds you saw on your field trip?!
If you live in a wet climate, a weather-proof field notebook is essential. Opt for one with a wipe-clean hardback cover and paper with a high cotton content so it will not rip.
Don’t forget to bring a pen and a spare. Better yet, find a notebook with an elastic pen holder attached so you will always remember to bring one.
Bird Identification Book
You likely spend all your free time (when not bird watching) flipping through local wildlife books and studying the types of bird found near you.
But it is still important to bring those books when you are out bird watching so you can reference them while the birds are fresh in your mind. Or, if you are lucky, right in front of you!
Try and find books as specific to the local area you are bird-watching in as possible. And choose one with a clear list of bird identifiers so you can be 100% sure of the types of birds you are spotting.
Appropriate Outdoor Clothing
Bird watching is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to wear clothing that is suitable for your climate and so you can sit outside for hours on end.
Consider investing in the following gear:
- Warm and waterproof outdoor coat
- Waterproof over-pants
- Zip-off hiking pants
- Strong and waterproof hiking shoes
- Sweat-wicking shirts, underwear, and socks
Birder clothing is likely not much different than what you would wear camping or hiking.
Safety Equipment
Also, do not forget safety when you are bird watching. It is not a contact or extreme sport, but there are still some (mild) dangers involved! Consider packing the following for your bird watching trips:
- Sunblock and lip balm with SPF
- Wool beanie or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunblock is essential if you are sitting outside all day. Insect repellent and a small first aid kit couldn’t hurt, either.
Food and Water
Once you find a great bird-watching spot, you will not want to leave it to go and grab lunch. So, don’t forget to bring ample sustenance (and more for safety) for the duration of your trip.
Consider a flask of tea or coffee to keep you warm. Trekking snack bars and beef jerky will get you through those pangs of hunger, too. Investing in a two or three-liter water bladder means you can quench your thirst while not taking your eyes from your binoculars.
Useful Birding Apps
How are those authentic bird calls coming? Yeah, the blue jay is a tough one. If you are struggling to mimic all the different calls, download a birding app instead which will do it for you. Check these out:
- eBird
- Merlin Bird ID
- Audubon Bird Guide
If you are quick enough, you can also take a photo of the bird with these apps and they will identify it for you. If not, you can answer some simple questions and they will help, too.
Backpack or Trekking Bag
And the last thing you need on your bird-watching checklist is an intrepid, long-lasting bag to carry all your gear in. Whether you want a backpack or a messenger bag, make sure it holds everything.
Get a waterproof rain cover, too.
If you have a lot of photography equipment, consider opting for a camera bag instead to keep your equipment safe.
Don’t Leave These Bird Watching Essentials at Home
Bird watching is far more exciting and fulfilling than most people give it credit for. And having all the essential birder equipment and gear will make your spotting trips more successful and enjoyable.
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