 |
|||
|
|
|||
|
What do I need to have to be able to bird watch?
One of the great things about bird watching is that it doesn’t require a lot of expensive equipment. Some people enjoy watching birds on their backyard feeders without any equipment at all, but it helps to have a pair of binoculars and a field guide. Below is a description of some of the basics. Binoculars:  You can get a decent pair of birding binoculars for less than $100 and there are many websites that review different types and price ranges of binoculars for you. All binoculars are described by two numbers, like 7X50, 8X40, or 10X50. The first number tells you the magnification and the second number describes the size of the objective lens in millimeters. The larger the numbers, the more the magnification and the amount of light let in through the lens. Higher magnification of a bird also means higher magnification of movement and a heavier pair of binoculars, so higher numbers are not always better. The best binoculars for bird watching are typically mid-sized, so choose 7X35, 8X32, or 8X40. Also, always try a pair of binoculars in the store before purchasing them to make sure that they are comfortable for you.
Field Guides: Field guides vary with the author or publisher so it’s a good idea to look through a few before deciding which one you prefer. When looking for a field guide, make sure to pick one that is compact and comfortable to carry with you on long walks. Some good field guides include: Audubon’s Pocket Guides, Kaufman’s Guides, National Geographic Guides, Stoke’s Guides, Peterson’s Guides, and Sibley’s “Field-Sized” Guides. Other equipment that you may decide to purchase:
Make sure to check out the National Aviary’s gift shop for some great birding equipment!
  BACK TO BIRDWATCHING MAIN
|
Many advanced birders can identify birds without sight by listening for their songs. There are many good bird song cds on the market that are produced by the same publishers as the field guides. 
