🦉 Top 3 Birding Tips 🦆 by Vinnie, 14

Hello! I'm Vinnie, and I've been interested in birds and the natural world from a very young age. I've taken up bird photography and bird watching as a hobby for a few months now, and it has grown on me as time has gone on. I've discovered that so much can live and thrive in a space as small as a farmer's field, I've learnt so much about the local wildlife too!

Even though all birds are uniquely captivating, my favourite species would be the common kestrel. Nothing beats seeing them hovering in the air, with the female bird's stunning tawny brown plumage that is distinguishable from a mile away, as well as the courtship and displays that, if you're lucky, you can see during the mating season!

Birding and bird watching can be a stress-relieving and exciting way to be out in nature. Bird watching can be difficult sometimes, whether it be where you live or how timid your local birds are. So this blog will give you some tips to help you get the most out of birding!

1 - Finding A Perfect Spot

Sometimes it can be hard to pick a place to find some birds - this is why it’s key to find a spot where you’re most likely to spot them. For example, a good bird watching spot won’t be too close to where birds gather or perch frequently, and not too far away to where it’ll be difficult to see them. Creating a disturbance where the birds carry out their daily behaviour will result in less activity. So, you should place a chair, or stand, at a spot where they can see you’re there, but won’t fly away. For example, a garden chair just a bit away from a bird feeder is an excellent spot!

2. Be Patient

Now you’ve found a spot, it’s crucial to be patient. Some birds are timid, or arrive later, than others. There’s an element of luck to it - no matter how appealing your bird feeder or your local park may look, sometimes a bird will prefer somewhere else. Although, it’s very common that if food is available, and the environment is right, a bird will return frequently. Of course, this varies between different species, such as migratory birds and birds of prey, but it’s common for our resident birds like finches and robins.

3. Enjoy it!

Last but not least, enjoy being with nature, whether it be in your garden or in the park because that’s what birding is all about! It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and watch our wonderful wildlife around us.

Thanks for reading!

Vinnie