Do you enjoy spending time outdoors surrounded by beautiful wildlife? If so, backyard bird watching is the hobby for you! This guide will discuss everything you need to know about getting started in this enjoyable pastime. We’ll cover the basics, such as what supplies you need and how to attract birds to your yard. Plus, we’ll give you tips on identifying different species of birds. So get ready to roll up your sleeves and watch those feathered friends!
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Birdwatching Through History
Birdwatching, commonly called birding, has been enjoyed by humans for centuries. Historians have noticed frequent mentions of people observing birds in ancient artwork and literature from all three major European cultures. These records can be traced back to the 4th century BC. Interestingly, it wasn’t until much later that bird watching was taken seriously enough to become a scientific practice.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, naturalists headed out into nature and recorded details about different species; this gave rise to ornithology, or the study of birds through observation. Today it is a beloved activity throughout the world which offers an incredibly rewarding experience – aesthetically, intellectually, and spiritually.
Landscaping Tips
Backyard birdwatching is a rewarding hobby that provides endless entertainment and joy. There are a few essential tips to remember to create a backyard landscape suited specifically for birds. First, it’s important to plant trees and shrubs native to the area to attract the widest variety of birds. Additionally, incorporating birdfeeders and water sources like bird baths will make your property an attractive spot for them by providing additional resources.
Furthermore, ensuring there are more wild spaces than groomed lawns gives birds the means to build nests away from predators and natural shelter from the elements. Lastly, considering these landscaping tips combined with your design ideas will take your backyard from dull to bird-friendly in no time.
Plants And Trees That Attract Birds
Below is a list of common plants and trees that are especially attractive to birds.
- Red Mulberry
- Flowering Dogwood
- White Oak
- Red Maple
- American Holly
- Virginia Creeper Vine
As you can see, there are a wide variety of choices regarding plants and trees that attract birds. The best way to figure out which species are most desirable in your yard is to research local bird activity. Plenty of online resources can help you with this task, so be sure to do some digging!
Installing Bird Fixtures
Installing bird fixtures in your backyard is an effective way to attract birds. Various bird fixtures, from simple feeders to elaborate houses, create a welcoming environment for our feathery friends. When choosing where and how to hang feeders, consider the types of birds in your area and what specific features will make them feel at home. Placing a shelter near or around food sources can help draught-sensitive birds find safety during inclement weather.
Additionally, install bird baths nearby to ensure the feathered visitors can access fresh water when they arrive. Finally, ensure you keep your fixtures away from predators like cats, dogs, or open windows. With these helpful tips in mind, you should be able to successfully install bird fixtures and welcome a wonderful assortment of birds into your backyard!
Equipment You’ll Need
If you’re looking to get started in the fulfilling, exciting hobby of bird watching, one of the best places to start is right in your own backyard. To make the most of it, some essential gear and equipment will help you enjoy the birds around you more easily. Binoculars are essential for getting a clearer view, preferably lightweight and pocket-sized. Bird guides allow you to identify different species and learn about them – whether physical books or digital versions, they’re invaluable resources for any birdwatcher.
Furthermore, when doing close-up observation with minimum disruption, having a camera or smartphone on hand can be incredibly useful for capturing images (or videos) of the birds near your home. All these items come together to form the basis of backyard bird watching – so make sure you get them ready before taking your first steps into this wonderful world!
Clothing
Aside from the gear and equipment you’ll need for proper backyard bird watching, there are a few more things to keep in mind. First of all, clothing is key – make sure that your choice of clothing doesn’t have too many loud colors or patterns. You should also try to wear neutral or darker colors that blend in with the surrounding environment and help you be less visible to wildlife (especially birds). If birds see you coming, they may be less inclined to visit your feeder or perch near your window.
Additionally, don’t forget to be sensitive about scents as well! Strong-scented fragrances like perfume or cologne can scare away nearby birds from visiting or returning, so make sure you’re wearing only light and natural scents.
Identifying Birds
Bird watching is extremely rewarding, but it can also be challenging to identify a bird from a distance. Fortunately, many helpful resources can assist you with this process. First, take note of the bird’s physical characteristics: size and shape, colors and markings, type of bill, and legs. Birds often have similar features that distinguish one species from another.
Second, pay attention to its behavior: what type of feeding technique does it use? Does it frequent a specific tree in your backyard? Does it join other birds at the feeder? These observations can provide helpful clues as to which species you have seen.
Finally, don’t forget to look up possible matches the old-fashioned way: binoculars are great tools for getting an even closer look at a bird you may wish to identify! With some patience and knowledge about birds in your area, you’ll be able to become an expert watcher in no time.
Plenty of resources are available online to help narrow down bird species, as well as fabulous books and field guides that you can use to explore your backyard and identify new birds.
Get Out There, And Start Backyard Bird Watching Today!
In conclusion, if you’re looking to get into the exciting hobby of birdwatching, there are a few simple steps that you can follow to succeed. Everything from proper landscaping to getting ready with the right equipment and clothing, as well as learning about identifying birds from afar (or up close!), you’ll be able to take your first steps into this wonderful world with confidence. Get out today and enjoy the birds that surround you in your backyard!
