1.  Spend some time flipping through your field guide. The more familiar you are with the way your field guide is organized, the easier it will be for you to find a bird that you want to identify when you’re in the field.

2.  Practice using your binoculars. It takes time to get used to spotting a bird with your eyes and then finding it again with your binoculars. Practice bringing the binoculars up to your eyes while your eyes are still focused on the bird. It’ll become easier the more you do it.

3.  Plan a time to go out. The time of the year with the most bird activity is typically in the fall or spring when the birds are migrating, although many birds can be seen year-round. The best time of day to go out is in the early morning when birds are foraging, singing and generally more active.

4.  Once you’re out, walk slowly and pause often. Birds are not necessarily going to sit still in plain sight, so you’ll have a better chance spotting one if you take your time. This is one of the reason people enjoy bird watching—it forces you to slow down and relax!

5.  Look and listen for birds. Often you’ll hear a bird before you see it and that will give you a hint for where to look. Once you’ve spotted it with your eyes, without taking your eyes off of it bring your binoculars up to your eyes. Watch it as long as you can, mentally noting all of its features.

6.  While looking at the bird take note of the features that will help you with identification. Color, size, shape/profile, habitat and behavior all help when you’re looking for it in your field guide. Some characteristics can be very helpful, such as a long bill, long legs, or a tufted head. Remember that color can sometimes be deceiving depending on shading and lighting.

7.  If possible, go with a more experienced birder. One of the best ways to learn to identify birds is to go with someone who’s already good at it!

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