Bird watching, also known as birding, is considered a hobby by some and a sport by others, but it can also be a great activity for kids to try out on the elementary school playground equipment. It is a very popular activity because it is inclusive, people of all ages and abilities can enjoy it as they sit on a park bench or picnic table. About one-fifth of the United States population is thought to be involved in bird watching, according to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. One of the reasons for the popularity of bird watching is that there are no special requirements in order to participate, just find a comfortable park bench or plop down at a commercial picnic table on the playground and you can enjoy the sights and bird sounds around you. Ideally, a person would invest in a durable pair of binoculars to see the wild birds clearly from a distance, but it’s not absolutely necessary for armature bird watchers to do so.
To assist in getting started in bird watching, we have put together the following list of resources and tips to get the most out of your experiences.
Bird Identification
Learning to identify birds is one of the most rewarding parts of bird-watching. Here are some key aspects to focus on:
- Size and Shape: Observe the bird’s general size and body shape. This is often the first clue to its species.
- Plumage (Feather Color and Pattern): Look at the bird's colors and markings, such as streaks, spots, or patches.
- Bill Shape and Size: Different bird species have different types of bills depending on their diet. For instance, finches have short, conical bills, while herons have long, pointed bills.
- Behavior: Take note of how the bird moves and behaves, such as how it flies, forages, or sings.
- Calls and Songs: Many birds are easier to identify by sound than by sight. Learn the common songs and calls of birds in your area.
- Habitat and Range: Birds are often found in specific habitats (forests, wetlands, grasslands). Knowing what species are common in your area is crucial.
Tip : Use field guides or bird-watching apps (like Merlin Bird ID or Audubon) to help with identification.
Bird Research
Bird watchers contribute to scientific knowledge through citizen science projects, where their observations are recorded and analyzed by researchers. Examples include:
- eBird : A platform that allows bird watchers to log their sightings and share data with researchers.
- Christmas Bird Count: An annual event run by the Audubon Society where birders count all birds seen in their area.
- Great Backyard Bird Count : A global event that encourages birders to count birds in their own backyard for a few days each February.
Beginning Bird Watching Guides, Tips and Tricks
If you're new to bird-watching, here are some simple tips to get started:
Where to Start
- Start at Home: You can begin bird-watching in your backyard. Setting up a bird feeder can attract a variety of species.
- Local Parks or Nature Reserves: These are often great places for bird-watching with diverse habitats.
- Walk Slowly and Quietly: Birds are sensitive to noise and movement. Move slowly, and stay quiet to avoid scaring them off.
What to Look for
- Time of Day: Birds are usually more active early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
- Seasons Matter: Bird populations change with the seasons due to migration. Spring and fall migrations are especially exciting times for birders.
How to Observe
- Be Patient: Birds may not appear right away, so patience is key.
- Stay Low: Blend into your surroundings, and avoid wearing bright colors.
Resources for Beginners
Bird Watching Equipment – Beyond a Comfortable Spot Under a Shade Structure, There’s not Too Much That’s Needed
While bird-watching requires little equipment beyond a picnic table under a playground shade structure, certain tools can enhance your experience. Take along any of the following tools to your favorite park or playground, sit under a shade canopy and enjoy:
- Binoculars: Essential for getting a closer view of distant birds. Beginners should look for binoculars with magnification between 7x and 10x.
- Field Guide: A guidebook or app with illustrations or photos of birds can help you identify species.
- Notebook: Keeping a bird journal helps track your sightings and can improve your identification skills over time.
- Camera: If you want to capture photos of birds, a camera with a good zoom lens is useful.
- Bird Feeder: To attract birds to your yard, you can use different types of feeders depending on the species (hummingbird feeders, seed feeders, suet feeders).
Optional gear includes a spotting scope for distant birds, like those seen across wetlands or on cliffs, and comfortable clothing for outdoor conditions.
Organizations and Associations
There are many organizations dedicated to bird-watching and bird conservation. These groups provide resources, organize events, and advocate for bird protection:
- Audubon Society: One of the oldest bird conservation organizations, the Audubon Society provides resources, field trips, and bird counts.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Known for its bird research and online bird resources, Cornell runs platforms like eBird, where birders can report sightings and contribute to citizen science.
- American Birding Association (ABA): A great resource for birders of all levels, providing a community for birders and organizing trips, events, and publications.
- BirdLife International: A global partnership of organizations working to conserve birds and their habitats.
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB): Based in the UK, this group focuses on bird conservation and offers extensive resources for bird watchers.
Bird Publications and E-Zines
Bird Watching Pages and Activities for Kids
Conclusion – Bird Watching is Great Fun That Can Be Enjoyed on the Playground Equipment or in the Woods
Bird-watching is a peaceful and rewarding hobby that deepens your connection with nature. Whether you’re a beginner just exploring as you spend time on your playground equipment or a seasoned birder, it’s a practice that continually teaches new skills, fosters curiosity, and supports conservation efforts. By using the right space in a park or playground, equipment, learning to identify species, and participating in bird-watching communities, you can enjoy this activity for years to come.
This article was last updated on September 27th, 2024 by author Kim Hart
