Innovative Bird Watching Gear Incidents and Programs

Taxonomic data can also easily be stored and accessed on CDs. Consequently more birding reference works are available in electronic format including the guidebook "Cornell Birds of North America" and "FeederWatcher's Guide to Backyard Birds."

Microphone bird watching has made the parabolic microphone one of the most popular bird watching devices. These specialized microphones allow birders to zero in more precisely on individual bird calls and even to record the sings with included recorder output jacks.

Bird Watching: Easy To Get Started

Getting started with bird watching does not require a tremendous financial outlay or the acquisition of a great deal of equipment. In reality all you need is a good pair of binoculars, a guide book appropriate to the geographic region in which you find yourself, and some place where birds congregate. Be prepared though, you'll need to get up early. The best times of day to spot birds are early in the morning and at dusk.

For many people bird watching is a solitary pursuit but if you are interested in becoming part of a group of like minded folks, consult the Internet or the Yellow Pages to locate bird watching clubs or societies in your area and consider subscribing to a bird watching journal or magazine. Videos and documentaries often aired on natural and science channels are also a good source of information and can help you to gain a feel for what to watch and listen for when you are in the field.

If possible, set up a bird feeder in your backyard in direct line of sight with a window where you can observe the species that call your property home. Many varieties of feeders are readily available including tray, hopper, suet, and silo feeders. Consult with your local bird expert or use your guide book and reference sources to determine which type of feeder will work best with the birds that are likely to live in your yard.

By using some minimal bird watching gear and learning the bird watching basics you will derive hours of pleasure from observing these small, intelligent creatures in their native environments.