by Alyse Passmore

Created on: November 23, 2009

The sport of birding might be humorous to some. The concept behind sitting and waiting for wild bird activity may seem ridiculous. However, if you weigh it up you may come to the conclusion that it hardly differs from watching Animal Planet on the telly. Both are a form of education. They allow you to view interactions between differing species, mechanisms of survival, mating rituals, and many other animalistic tendencies. Yet, there is one substantial difference. Birding allows you to take in some fresh air.

When you get over the stereotypical image of a man dressed in cargo pants with suspenders and a plaid shirt and you realise that birding can be quite rewarding you will need to pick up some tools for the sport. Two items are a definite must. One is a pair of binoculars. Two is a field guide.

When it comes to binoculars any pair is better than none. But if you are after some super spangled bird optics you are going to have to invest. While there are many sources online that give binocular reviews one should to be leery. Not all sources are unbiased. However, birdwatching.com mentions a review conducted by avid bird watchers Michael and Diane Porter that was published by Bird Watcher's Digest in 2008 which equitably evaluates a multitude of high-end binocular. The review takes into consideration factors such as weight, fit and feel in your hands, eye cup design, strap placement, dioptre settings and the focus knob.

A field guide is also necessary as it allows you to accurately identify species of bird and record when you saw them. When referring to birds by markings or colouring sometimes a description such as, fluffy little yellow bird with a black head is too broad; this would apply to a great many of different species. Certain birds will reside only in certain locations, will consume specific things or have inimitable calls. These traits will be the key to identify certain avian species.

There are plenty of different field guides to choose from. Often field guides will only outline species in a certain locations. For example the National Geographic Field Guide to Birds: Colorado may contain bird species found outside of Colorado, however, that is only because the also reside there. This wouldn't be a suitable book to carry on bird watching excursions in other regions. Similarly a field guide may only cover one group of birds. A field guide for song birds will not encompass that gigantic bird you saw on that farm yard fence in the middle of no where.

Now when it comes to other tools such as bird call whistles and telescopic cameras these are not essential. Of course, if you become extremely enthusiastic about this sport you should go ahead and purchase them but they are not necessary. All that is required is a moment of silence, a good eye, your binoculars, field guide, a thermos of coffee and perhaps a picnic lunch if there is a hike in store.

It truly is a rewarding sport. It will help you relax while you learn about the avian species in your region or maybe it is just your own backyard that you are curious about. Whatever your interest is and whenever you have a chance it is fun. Have a go.

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