By Mike Selvon
One of the best places for aspiring bird watchers to get their feet wet is in their own backyard. Backyard bird watching is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to get involved in birding as a hobby. While your interest may one day carry you to far away places in search of rare species, many find that they are more than satisfied by keeping track of the local bird life and enjoying the birds that live right under their noses.
You will want to do some research on what types of feeders are best for the birds that you are hoping to attract. Several styles meet the needs of many species. Some birds, however, require a specific type of feeder. You may find it best to construct your backyard bird watching area in a way that allows you to utilize several different feeders. Make sure you research how far away from each other the feeders should be.
Another decision that you will have to make as you are beginning your hobby of backyard bird watching is what to feed them. There is a wide range of feed available. Just like the feeders, the food that you select should depend in large part on what type of birds you are hoping to attract and where you live. Some of the more common types of bird feed are sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and thistle. Often found in a mix, pour this type of seed into a hopper type feeder to meet the needs of several different species at one backyard bird watching station. If you hope to attract some of the more fickle species, like bluebirds, then you will need to do some research on what type of fruit or nuts make up the diet of bluebirds in your area.
When you are setting up your area for backyard bird watching, you should ensure that you have good view of the feeders from the area that you anticipate using for observation. If you have any low hanging branches that may block your view, cut them away before you begin your project. If you wait until you already have a contingent of hungry customers to do so, the sudden change in environment may disrupt the feeding and behavior patterns that they have established.
Now that you are ready to begin your observations, you will find that you need some kind of magnifying device in order to see the birds better. A basic pair of binoculars is usually sufficient for beginners, though you may find it better to mount a spotting scope near a bird watching picture window in your home. These optical devices will greatly increase your ability to identify birds and to get to them by their distinct markings and behaviors.
Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal.
Please visit our bird feeder portal for more great tips on backyard bird watching.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon
For more ideas for birdwatching go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com
Showing posts with label birdwatching. Show all posts
Showing posts with label birdwatching. Show all posts
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Bird Watching - Is it Just For the Birds?
By Mike Selvon
When a bird watching hobbyist says that something is "for the birds," he or she does not mean that it is crazy. They are probably referring to some of their equipment or books that help them to have this wonderful hobby. If you have not had much contact with such pets and want to find a great pastime, then birding is definitely for you. It allows you to get outside and enjoy nature and it does not cost a whole lot to get started. You can go out and find interesting species of birds that you like.
Bird watching is one of those hobbies that you do not need a lot of information or equipment right off the bat. However, some people do want to get some guidance. One website that does offer guidance, equipment and hints/tips is Bird Watching. They have tons of information for the beginner. They can even give you tips on setting up bird feeders in your yard so that the birds will come to your yard instead, eliminating the need to go traipsing through the woods to find them.
A great way to get into watching these pets is to go on birding tours. These tours can be local or they can be to some tropical destination where you will observe exotic birds, such as Toucans or Flamingos. Just the thrill of seeing wild birds in their own natural habitat can be a treat for anyone. It not only gets you outside in the sun but it also can serve as an excellent form of exercise.
You can easily cover miles when you are absorbed in watching the skies or trees for the birds that you are seeking out. If you are not quite ready to spend a lot of money on a birding tour, then you can always borrow a book from your local library and discover the ones that live in your area. There are many books that can offer you tips and tricks to seeking out local of such pets.
If you want a more passive bird watching experience, you can always utilize feeders in your yard or garden. By feeding the birds you get the opportunity to observe many different kinds of these species that are native to your area. But remember that different feeders attract different types of of such pets. All of that free food will often attract squirrels that are looking for a quick meal. Your local home and garden center can help you find the right feeder for the job.
Find our more about birds of prey at Mike Selvon articles portal, and claim your free audio gift on common birds.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon
For more birdwatching ideas go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com
When a bird watching hobbyist says that something is "for the birds," he or she does not mean that it is crazy. They are probably referring to some of their equipment or books that help them to have this wonderful hobby. If you have not had much contact with such pets and want to find a great pastime, then birding is definitely for you. It allows you to get outside and enjoy nature and it does not cost a whole lot to get started. You can go out and find interesting species of birds that you like.
Bird watching is one of those hobbies that you do not need a lot of information or equipment right off the bat. However, some people do want to get some guidance. One website that does offer guidance, equipment and hints/tips is Bird Watching. They have tons of information for the beginner. They can even give you tips on setting up bird feeders in your yard so that the birds will come to your yard instead, eliminating the need to go traipsing through the woods to find them.
A great way to get into watching these pets is to go on birding tours. These tours can be local or they can be to some tropical destination where you will observe exotic birds, such as Toucans or Flamingos. Just the thrill of seeing wild birds in their own natural habitat can be a treat for anyone. It not only gets you outside in the sun but it also can serve as an excellent form of exercise.
You can easily cover miles when you are absorbed in watching the skies or trees for the birds that you are seeking out. If you are not quite ready to spend a lot of money on a birding tour, then you can always borrow a book from your local library and discover the ones that live in your area. There are many books that can offer you tips and tricks to seeking out local of such pets.
If you want a more passive bird watching experience, you can always utilize feeders in your yard or garden. By feeding the birds you get the opportunity to observe many different kinds of these species that are native to your area. But remember that different feeders attract different types of of such pets. All of that free food will often attract squirrels that are looking for a quick meal. Your local home and garden center can help you find the right feeder for the job.
Find our more about birds of prey at Mike Selvon articles portal, and claim your free audio gift on common birds.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Selvon
For more birdwatching ideas go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com
Monday, June 22, 2009
Birdwatching For Family Learning
By Robert W. Mann
Families can turn their birdwatching into meaningful learning and even research through national events like Project FeederWatch and the Great Backyard Bird Count. Facilitated by organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Audubon Society, these projects involve volunteers across the nation helping scientists monitor bird life in North America. The final result is a comprehensive report and publication.
Annual counts usually take place from November through early April. Registration begins in the springtime for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. Volunteer birdwatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.
The cost of participation is less than twenty dollars and covers the bulk of the project's cost. In addition, all participants receive a kit containing a poster for identifying birds, a wall calendar, a guide to proper bird feeding, a form for counting, and directions for using these items. U.S. residents are also given an annual subscription to the respective organization's newsletter.
Data collected in these projects is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.
The bird count is open to every type of individual and group. Currently it includes people of all skill levels and backgrounds: Classrooms, individuals, children, bird clubs, nature centers, youth groups, and retired persons. The count provides great learning opportunities for families in particular and can be a stepping stone for building an appreciation for birds.
Participants are free to choose how much time they invest. Organizers of the projects provide many options for when and how long to count birds. As the main approach is to provide numbers for a slice of time, schedules set to accommodate short attention spans can still provide meaningful results.
Picking a spot to count birds is up to the discretion of participants. Areas of the yard that include a birdhouse or bird feeder are a logical choice, but by no means the rule. Those who love to watch birds will have a good idea of where to find them. Instructions provided by the projects will also include guidelines on how to identify good areas for counting.
Taking part in a national bird count for research is a win-win for those with a love of birdwatching. Families can admire these beautiful creatures while providing a meaningful contribution to their well-being. The birding tools provided are also worth the effort and can be a part of future family learning projects.
To treat your wild birds to a bird feeder or birdhouse, point your browser to http://www.birdhousebirdfeeder.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_W._Mann
For more great ideas go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com
Families can turn their birdwatching into meaningful learning and even research through national events like Project FeederWatch and the Great Backyard Bird Count. Facilitated by organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Audubon Society, these projects involve volunteers across the nation helping scientists monitor bird life in North America. The final result is a comprehensive report and publication.
Annual counts usually take place from November through early April. Registration begins in the springtime for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. Volunteer birdwatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.
The cost of participation is less than twenty dollars and covers the bulk of the project's cost. In addition, all participants receive a kit containing a poster for identifying birds, a wall calendar, a guide to proper bird feeding, a form for counting, and directions for using these items. U.S. residents are also given an annual subscription to the respective organization's newsletter.
Data collected in these projects is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.
The bird count is open to every type of individual and group. Currently it includes people of all skill levels and backgrounds: Classrooms, individuals, children, bird clubs, nature centers, youth groups, and retired persons. The count provides great learning opportunities for families in particular and can be a stepping stone for building an appreciation for birds.
Participants are free to choose how much time they invest. Organizers of the projects provide many options for when and how long to count birds. As the main approach is to provide numbers for a slice of time, schedules set to accommodate short attention spans can still provide meaningful results.
Picking a spot to count birds is up to the discretion of participants. Areas of the yard that include a birdhouse or bird feeder are a logical choice, but by no means the rule. Those who love to watch birds will have a good idea of where to find them. Instructions provided by the projects will also include guidelines on how to identify good areas for counting.
Taking part in a national bird count for research is a win-win for those with a love of birdwatching. Families can admire these beautiful creatures while providing a meaningful contribution to their well-being. The birding tools provided are also worth the effort and can be a part of future family learning projects.
To treat your wild birds to a bird feeder or birdhouse, point your browser to http://www.birdhousebirdfeeder.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_W._Mann
For more great ideas go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Binoculars For Birdwatching
By George Sandler
Exercise patience in the beginning and practice well, soon you will be rewarded with many hours of sheer pleasure watching these delightful creatures takes to fight. You would need to use the binoculars to help you watch the bird from a distance as any step closer to these twittering beings will only scare them and cause them to fly away. A superior set will enable you watch these birds from a distance so it is important to invest in quality so the view will be clear and bright.
Try to go for a branded pair of binoculars, and while it may seem like an expensive investment to make, it will prove to be worthwhile in the long run. To be able to view the objects up close you need to make sure the binoculars have at least 7x power magnification. There are other brands that can do 8x and 10x, often even beyond 20x but it is difficult to hold them steady when they have this strength magnification. If you look closely, you can see a second number such as 35, 40 or even 50 after the 'x', which basically describes the size of the lens when faced with the object of interest.
The principle is actually very simple, the higher the number, the greater the light that gets into the binoculars making the image clear and not distorted. This is because they only have a narrow field of view so it is hard to keep track of the bird when they take flight. Once you get hold of the pair of binoculars you need, then it is time to start looking for a book on birds and their descriptions that you can use as reference. You have to remember that not all birds are found in the same area and when you have an idea of what you are looking for it will be very easy for you to narrow your search.
With the two things in hand, you can already go off bird watching. To see these creatures in their natural habitat try joining a bird watching club, it lets you get close to them through organized field trips into the forest which you can join. If only we have the ability to zoom in on object like an eagle then we won't need those binoculars for bird watching. Since it is virtually impossible for humans to zoom in using their eyes, artificial aids are necessary to help us out but it is practice that will improve your skill and enjoyment of bird watching.
Visit http://hubpages.com/hub/birdwatching-binoculars and find one of the best resources online about Birdwatching Binoculars.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Sandler
For more great info on birdwatching go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com/
Exercise patience in the beginning and practice well, soon you will be rewarded with many hours of sheer pleasure watching these delightful creatures takes to fight. You would need to use the binoculars to help you watch the bird from a distance as any step closer to these twittering beings will only scare them and cause them to fly away. A superior set will enable you watch these birds from a distance so it is important to invest in quality so the view will be clear and bright.
Try to go for a branded pair of binoculars, and while it may seem like an expensive investment to make, it will prove to be worthwhile in the long run. To be able to view the objects up close you need to make sure the binoculars have at least 7x power magnification. There are other brands that can do 8x and 10x, often even beyond 20x but it is difficult to hold them steady when they have this strength magnification. If you look closely, you can see a second number such as 35, 40 or even 50 after the 'x', which basically describes the size of the lens when faced with the object of interest.
The principle is actually very simple, the higher the number, the greater the light that gets into the binoculars making the image clear and not distorted. This is because they only have a narrow field of view so it is hard to keep track of the bird when they take flight. Once you get hold of the pair of binoculars you need, then it is time to start looking for a book on birds and their descriptions that you can use as reference. You have to remember that not all birds are found in the same area and when you have an idea of what you are looking for it will be very easy for you to narrow your search.
With the two things in hand, you can already go off bird watching. To see these creatures in their natural habitat try joining a bird watching club, it lets you get close to them through organized field trips into the forest which you can join. If only we have the ability to zoom in on object like an eagle then we won't need those binoculars for bird watching. Since it is virtually impossible for humans to zoom in using their eyes, artificial aids are necessary to help us out but it is practice that will improve your skill and enjoyment of bird watching.
Visit http://hubpages.com/hub/birdwatching-binoculars and find one of the best resources online about Birdwatching Binoculars.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Sandler
For more great info on birdwatching go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com/
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Birdwatching - Connecting Kids to Nature!
By Shari Carpenter
What child hasn't been delighted to see his first bird up close?
Maybe it was a humble sparrow or a squawking seagull -- whatever they are, birds are a natural delight to watch and can be seen anywhere in the world.
If you are looking for an activity that you can enjoy with your children, whether they're five or 15, you might want to consider the popular hobby of bird watching. It is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in America -- and a great way for families to enjoy time together.
What IS Bird Watching?
Bird watching is more than just observing birds. It is an interest in the actual birds -- their names, markings, activities, songs and habitats. Not only does it encourage a child (or an adult) to learn about birds, but gets them outside and builds an appreciation of local wildlife and nature.
Bird watching doesn't require a strong knowledge of birds; you can learn with your children as you begin to locate and identify local wild birds. Keep a list of the birds you've spotted and help one another identify what you've seen by making notes of the color, size and markings on the bird. You may even start to learn their calls and challenge yourself to identify the birds by their songs.
Where Can You Go to Bird Watch?
Bird watching can be as simple an activity as setting up a bird feeder in your backyard and watching the local wild birds that come to you. However, your children will no doubt appreciate time spent outdoors, properly geared up for an outing of bird watching with you.
You will soon learn about the specific habitats that birds live in around your home. As you become familiar with local birds you may even want to take trips to areas that will feature different species than you have locally. Watch as your children eagerly try to identify these new birds before you do!
What Do You Need?
Bird watching is a very inexpensive hobby. If you are going to be outside you will want everyone to have proper attire -- including an extra pair of socks and a hat.
Other than that you will need at least one pair of binoculars, although it is more fun if everyone has their own pair so nobody misses out on a sighting. There are special binoculars for kids.
You'll also want a bird book (called a field guide) to help you identify the birds you see. If you take along one that features birds in your area it will also give you suggestions about where you can find them.
If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching bug, be sure to take along a notepad and camera. Make notes on birds you can't identify and look them up at home with your children to determine what you saw. You might also develop a list of local birds and check them off as you see them. This is great for kids who thrive on challenge!
Don't miss out -- watch birds in your backyard daily. Just put up a feeder to get started. But if you really want to attract birds add a bird bath. You and your kids will have even more fun if you put up a birdhouse (nestbox) to watch a new family of baby birds being raised.
Bird watching is a fantastic hobby that the whole family can enjoy. Try it one afternoon and see for yourself how your family bonds while enjoying the fresh air, local scenery and most of all ... the natural world!
Permission is granted to reprint full article "as is" with author credit as given below and a link back to http://www.birdwatchin.com/ There are no private label resale rights available and the article cannot be modified or your name assigned to it.
Shari Carpenter is the owner of http://www.birdwatchin.com/, a one-stop resource for people that love birdwatching, bird feeding and pet birds. http://www.birdwatchin.com/ covers a wide range of information, products and supplies, including the blog "Birdwatchin' Buzz Today!" It is also the place to subscribe to "David's Wild Bird Club" Newsletter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shari_Carpenter
For more ideas on birdwatching go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com/
What child hasn't been delighted to see his first bird up close?
Maybe it was a humble sparrow or a squawking seagull -- whatever they are, birds are a natural delight to watch and can be seen anywhere in the world.
If you are looking for an activity that you can enjoy with your children, whether they're five or 15, you might want to consider the popular hobby of bird watching. It is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in America -- and a great way for families to enjoy time together.
What IS Bird Watching?
Bird watching is more than just observing birds. It is an interest in the actual birds -- their names, markings, activities, songs and habitats. Not only does it encourage a child (or an adult) to learn about birds, but gets them outside and builds an appreciation of local wildlife and nature.
Bird watching doesn't require a strong knowledge of birds; you can learn with your children as you begin to locate and identify local wild birds. Keep a list of the birds you've spotted and help one another identify what you've seen by making notes of the color, size and markings on the bird. You may even start to learn their calls and challenge yourself to identify the birds by their songs.
Where Can You Go to Bird Watch?
Bird watching can be as simple an activity as setting up a bird feeder in your backyard and watching the local wild birds that come to you. However, your children will no doubt appreciate time spent outdoors, properly geared up for an outing of bird watching with you.
You will soon learn about the specific habitats that birds live in around your home. As you become familiar with local birds you may even want to take trips to areas that will feature different species than you have locally. Watch as your children eagerly try to identify these new birds before you do!
What Do You Need?
Bird watching is a very inexpensive hobby. If you are going to be outside you will want everyone to have proper attire -- including an extra pair of socks and a hat.
Other than that you will need at least one pair of binoculars, although it is more fun if everyone has their own pair so nobody misses out on a sighting. There are special binoculars for kids.
You'll also want a bird book (called a field guide) to help you identify the birds you see. If you take along one that features birds in your area it will also give you suggestions about where you can find them.
If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching bug, be sure to take along a notepad and camera. Make notes on birds you can't identify and look them up at home with your children to determine what you saw. You might also develop a list of local birds and check them off as you see them. This is great for kids who thrive on challenge!
Don't miss out -- watch birds in your backyard daily. Just put up a feeder to get started. But if you really want to attract birds add a bird bath. You and your kids will have even more fun if you put up a birdhouse (nestbox) to watch a new family of baby birds being raised.
Bird watching is a fantastic hobby that the whole family can enjoy. Try it one afternoon and see for yourself how your family bonds while enjoying the fresh air, local scenery and most of all ... the natural world!
Permission is granted to reprint full article "as is" with author credit as given below and a link back to http://www.birdwatchin.com/ There are no private label resale rights available and the article cannot be modified or your name assigned to it.
Shari Carpenter is the owner of http://www.birdwatchin.com/, a one-stop resource for people that love birdwatching, bird feeding and pet birds. http://www.birdwatchin.com/ covers a wide range of information, products and supplies, including the blog "Birdwatchin' Buzz Today!" It is also the place to subscribe to "David's Wild Bird Club" Newsletter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shari_Carpenter
For more ideas on birdwatching go to http://digitalmomento-n-more.com/
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