Backyard Bird Watching Is As Easy As 1,2,3

Backyard bird watching is an outdoor hobby that does not require long trips into the field or large investments in expensive equipment. While it is possible to chase birds all over the continent and to the most remote reaches of the globe, it is certainly not a requirement. With a few basic, inexpensive steps, one can set up a great atmosphere for birds and some ideal spaces from which to observe them.

One of the best places for aspiring bird watchers to get their feet wet is in their own backyard. Backyard bird watching is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to get involved in birding as a hobby. While your interest may one day carry you to far away places in search of rare species, many find that they are more than satisfied by keeping track of the local bird life and enjoying the birds that live right under their noses.

Many folk find that backyard bird watching is a great way to get introduced to the activity. It is an inexpensive way to begin learning to identify species. The birds that you observe in the backyard can also provide valuable experience in note keeping, as you track the birds that come and go. Regardless of your experience level, setting up a backyard theater for observation can be a rewarding experience.

The first investment that you will need to make is in a feeder for your backyard. Since different species of birds have different diets and eating habits, you will need to select a feeder that will attract the kinds of birds that you want to watch, or which live in your region. A few of the different styles of feeders that you may find are hopper feeders, tube feeders, tray feeders and cage feeders. There are also specialty feeders available for specific species like hummingbirds and blue birds.

The most important element of bird watching in the backyard is the theater that you create for the birds. The centerpiece of this studio will most likely be a feeder, or maybe even a series of feeders. Depending upon what types of birds you hope to attract, you will need to make available specific types of feeders. While many styles are good for attracting a large variety of species, some birds, like hummingbirds and bluebirds, require special feeders that will not attract other kinds of birds.

You will want to do some research on what types of feeders are best for the birds that you are hoping to attract. Several styles meet the needs of many species. Some birds, however, require a specific type of feeder. You may find it best to construct your backyard bird watching area in a way that allows you to utilize several different feeders. Make sure you research how far away from each other the feeders should be.

Another decision that you will have to make as you are beginning your hobby of backyard bird watching is what to feed them. There is a wide range of feed available. Just like the feeders, the food that you select should depend in large part on what type of birds you are hoping to attract and where you live. Some of the more common types of bird feed are sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and thistle. Often found in a mix, pour this type of seed into a hopper type feeder to meet the needs of several different species at one backyard bird watching station. If you hope to attract some of the more fickle species, like bluebirds, then you will need to do some research on what type of fruit or nuts make up the diet of bluebirds in your area.

When you are setting up your area for backyard bird watching, you should ensure that you have a good view of the feeders from the area that you anticipate using for observation. If you have any low hanging branches that may block your view, cut them away before you begin your project. If you wait until you already have a contingent of hungry customers to do so, the sudden change in environment may disrupt the feeding and behavior patterns that they have established.

Finally, make sure that you have some sort of optical device so that you are able to observe closely the new residents of your backyard bird watching sanctuary. Some bird watchers prefer a pair of handheld binoculars, while others prefer mounting a spotting scope to a tripod. Both have advantages. The binoculars allow you to be mobile and observe from different points very easily. A spotting scope can be difficult to move quickly, but generally provides a much clearer view, since it does not shake with the natural movements of your hands and breathing.

No matter how you set up your backyard bird theater, you will most likely find that you need some kind of optical device. Whether you choose to use a set of handheld binoculars or a mount a spotting scope, you will find it much easier to identify, not only species, but individual birds when you can see them closely. The magnified images will allow you to make notations of particular markings, thus giving you the opportunity to track the annual arrival and departure of migratory birds.

Now that you are ready to begin your observations, you will find that you need some kind of magnifying device in order to see the birds better. A basic pair of binoculars is usually sufficient for beginners, though you may find it better to mount a spotting scope near a bird watching picture window in your home. These optical devices will greatly increase your ability to identify birds and to get to them by their distinct markings and behaviors.

So develop a broader sense of birding. Bring birds around more often and dance to the tune of their music while you get and keep them in your area longer with bird feeders.

Learn a lot more: The “Everything You Want to Know About Birdfeeders” Guide