Identifying Birds

There are several things you need to do before you can graduate from simply watching and enjoying the birds to identifying them.

1. You need a field guide for your area. A field guide is a book with pictures and tips for identifying birds. There are several excellent books on the market today. For help in selecting a bird watching field guide check out Selecting a Bird Watching Field Guide


2. You will need a notebook or journal to record identifying features and other pertinent data.

3. You need a pair of binoculars or a scope to see the birds. Some birds, like the Robin and Cardinal can be identified with the naked eye, others cannot. With a pair of Binoculars, you will be able to see the details needed to identify the bird.

4. Become an expert on the birds in your area. It will narrow down the choices when it comes to identifying a new species visiting your yard.

1. Note the size of the bird.

2. What color are various body parts (wings, head, tail, etc.)

3. Does it have any distinct markings?

4. Where did you see it?

5. What time of day was it?

6. Was it eating? If so, was it drinking nectar, eating fruit, insects, or seeds?

7. Listen to its bird calls and songs. As you gain more experience, you will be able to identify birds by their sound.

8. If you have a camera, take a picture of the bird in question. You can use the picture for further study if you do not identify it on the spot.

The speed with which you can identify a bird will increase as your knowledge and skill develop. Consider joining a local birding group. Most bird watchers will be more than happy to share their tips and techniques with you. Before you know it, you will be the expert helping a beginner determine if the bird they see is a Purple Finch or a House Sparrow.