Birdwatching, or birding, is one of the most rewarding hobbies, offering both relaxation and an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned observer looking to sharpen your skills, identifying birds can be a challenging but exciting task. From bright songbirds to majestic raptors, birds are often elusive and quick to fly away. However, with a little practice and some essential tools, you can start identifying them like a pro.
Here’s your beginner’s field guide to identifying birds and understanding what to look for when observing them in the wild.
1. Start with the Basics: Gather Your Tools
Before heading out into the field, it’s important to have the right tools. For a beginner, these are the essentials you’ll need:
- Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will help you spot birds from a distance. Don’t go overboard on high magnification; 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars are a good starting point. Here is a guide by RSPB on how to choose the best binoculars for birdwatching
- Field Guide: A bird field guide specific to your region is an invaluable resource. It helps you match what you see to pictures, and often includes tips on size, colour, and habitat. Popular guides by RSPB are excellent choices.
- Notebook or Birding App: Many birders like to take notes or keep a birding journal to track their sightings.
2. Focus on Key Identification Features
Bird identification relies heavily on observing specific features. Start by noting the following:
Size & Shape
- Is the bird small and sparrow-sized, or large like a hawk or goose? The shape of the bird—whether it’s slender, stout, or has a sleek or bulky build—can help narrow down the options.
Colouration & Patterns
- Colours can be one of the easiest things to spot, but patterns like stripes, spots, or distinctive colour blocks help too. For example, many warblers have bright yellow feathers, but their specific patterns of stripes can help you identify them.
Bill (Beak) Shape
- Birds’ bills vary widely depending on what they eat. Sparrows and finches typically have short, conical bills suited for seeds, while waders like herons or ibises have long, pointed bills ideal for catching fish or probing mud.
Legs & Feet
- Pay attention to the bird’s legs and feet, which can provide clues about its behaviour and habitat. For instance, shorebirds like sandpipers have long legs, while birds of prey like eagles or hawks have strong, talon-like feet for hunting.
Tail
- Some birds have distinctive tail shapes, such as the forked tails of swallows or the long, pointed tails of hawks.
Flight Patterns
- Watch how the bird flies. Does it soar gracefully, or flap its wings rapidly? A bird’s flight style can tell you whether it’s a raptor (which often soars) or a songbird (which may have a faster, flitting flight pattern).
3. Note the Habitat & Behaviour
Where and how a bird lives often provides vital clues for identification. Birds are often tied to specific environments:
- Woodlands: You might spot robins, woodpeckers, and warblers here.
- Wetlands: Waterfowl like ducks, herons, and egrets thrive in marshy areas.
- Open Fields: Sparrows, hawks, and meadowlarks are commonly found in open spaces.
- Urban Areas: Pigeons, starlings, and crows are common in cities.
The bird’s behaviour—whether it’s perching on a branch, walking on the ground, or foraging for food—can also provide important context. Is it hunting for food? Is it engaging in courtship displays? Observing these habits may help you identify the species more accurately.
4. Listen to Bird Songs & Calls
Bird songs and calls are key to identifying species, especially when birds are high in trees or far away. Take time to learn common calls and songs. For example, the song of a northern cardinal is a bright, clear whistle, while a wood thrush produces a flute-like sound.
- Downloading a bird call app or listening to bird calls online can help train your ear.
- Many field guides will also include information about typical sounds.
5. Observe, Practice & Be Patient
Birding requires patience. Birds are often on the move, and it takes practice to improve your skills in spotting and identifying them. Start by familiarising yourself with the common birds in your area, and gradually work your way to more difficult species.
Keep in mind that birdwatching is not always about getting the perfect identification. It’s also about enjoying the process of connecting with nature and learning about the fascinating behaviours of birds.
6. Join a Birding Community Or Membership
Birdwatching can be even more rewarding when shared with others. Consider joining a local birding club or attending birding events and walks. Many experienced birdwatchers are happy to share their tips and knowledge with beginners.
RSPB has a great membership that offers individuals the opportunity to support wildlife conservation, with a particular focus on protecting birds and their habitats across the UK. As a member, you join a community of nature enthusiasts and environmental advocates dedicated to preserving the country’s diverse wildlife. Membership provides access to a variety of benefits, including regular updates on conservation efforts, invitations to exclusive events and nature walks, and discounts on RSPB products. Members also receive the RSPB’s Nature’s Home magazine, which features articles on birdwatching, wildlife conservation, and tips for creating wildlife-friendly spaces at home.
In addition to the tangible benefits, RSPB membership is a vital contribution to the protection of endangered species and habitats. The RSPB works to secure the future of wildlife through research, advocacy, and direct action on the ground, including running nature reserves, lobbying for stronger environmental policies, and engaging communities in conservation efforts. By becoming a member, you help fund these crucial initiatives and play an active role in safeguarding nature for future generations.
Find out more HERE.
Final Thoughts
Birdwatching is a journey, and identifying birds is part of the adventure. With time, you’ll develop an instinct for recognising species and their unique behaviours. Whether you’re spotting birds in your backyard or embarking on a weekend birding trip, the joy of discovery is at the heart of the experience.
