It started on a quiet Tuesday morning. I had just poured myself a hot cup of coffee and stepped outside with my journal. The garden was still. No cars. No distractions. Then I noticed a small flutter near the fence. A tiny blue and orange bird—later I’d learn it was an Eastern Bluebird—perched on a branch. I froze. I watched. And just like that, I was hooked. That small moment opened the door to a new hobby that gave me peace, purpose, and joy .hen I wondered, how could someone get started with birdwatching?
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Birdwatching has become a favorite way for many women like me—especially empty nesters or retirees—to reconnect with the natural world. It doesn’t cost much, it gets you moving, and it calms the mind.
In fact, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, people logged over 100 million bird sightings last year on eBird, a free global bird checklist platform used by scientists and hobbyists alike.
That’s a whole lot of bird love.
So if you’re curious, let’s get you started the right way—with practical steps, expert tips, and simple gear. Whether you’re in your backyard or a local park, birdwatching is waiting for you.
10 Practical Tips To Get Started with Birdwatching
Birdwatching is a very relaxing activity for seniors, empty-nesters and retirees. It’s calming, it teaches us about patience and to appreciate more the wonders of nature. So, let’s jump into it, 10 tips so you too can get started with birdwatching.
1. Understand What Birdwatching Really Is (and Isn’t)
You might hear different terms—birdwatching, birding, even ornithology. Here’s the difference:
- Birdwatching is enjoying and observing birds in nature.
- Birding is usually more intense—like a sport, with life lists and rare bird hunts.
- Ornithology is the scientific study of birds (think: researchers and academics).
The truth? You don’t need to be an expert, own fancy equipment, or travel far. Many birders begin as casual backyard watchers, simply enjoying birds while sipping tea on the porch. Others take photos or join bird counts.
There’s no wrong way to birdwatch.
2. Start Where You Are: Know the Birds in Your Area
You don’t need to visit national parks to find birds. Start in your backyard, neighborhood, or local park.
To help identify them:
Pay attention to bird size, color, beak shape, and how they move. For example, robins often hop and wag their tails, while chickadees flit quickly through branches.
Bonus tip: Bird activity changes by season. Spring and fall are migration seasons, so you might spot new visitors!
3. Gear Up Smart (Without Overspending)
You don’t need to buy everything right away, but a good pair of binoculars makes a big difference. Look for:
- Magnification: 8×42 is perfect for beginners (great balance of power and clarity).
- Weight: Choose a pair you can hold comfortably.
- Popular beginner models:
Other helpful tools:
Start small—no need to overbuy!
4. Learn the Basics of Bird Identification
Here’s how birders identify birds:
- Size and shape – Is it small like a sparrow or big like a hawk?
- Color pattern – Look at the wings, belly, and head.
- Behavior – Does it peck the ground, dive into bushes, or hover?
- Habitat – Is it near water, trees, or open grass?
Keep a small notebook or use an app to jot down what you see. Write the date, place, colors, and behavior. Photos help too, even if blurry—they’re clues for later ID!
And don’t forget your ears. Birds sing, chirp, squeak, and squawk. Merlin’s Sound ID can tell you what’s nearby just by listening!
5. Birds are most active during early morning or late afternoon.
To spot them:
- Move slowly and quietly. Sudden movements scare birds.
- Stand still for a few minutes. Birds come back when they feel safe.
- Scan in sections—start at the base of a tree and look up.
- Use natural cover and keep the sun at your back for a clearer view.
Sometimes, you’ll hear a bird before you see it. That’s okay—learning to listen is part of the fun!
6. Join the Birdwatching Community
Birding can be social too! Check out:
Guided walks are great for beginners. Experts will help you spot birds, share their scopes, and teach you local calls. It’s also a fun way to meet new people.
7. Log Your Sightings Like a Scientist
Writing down what you see isn’t just for memory—it helps scientists track bird populations too.
Use the free eBird app to record:
- Date and time
- Location
- Number and type of birds
- Notes on behavior or weather
Or use a paper journal if you prefer. Over time, you’ll see patterns: like when robins return in spring or how goldfinches vanish in winter.
You’re not just watching—you’re helping science!
8. Respect Birds and Their Habitats (Ethical Birdwatching)
Birdwatchers follow a code of ethics:
- Don’t get too close—never disturb birds or their nests.
- Avoid loud noises or chasing birds.
- Never feed wild birds bread or junk food—it can harm them.
- Stay on paths. Don’t damage plants or habitats.
The American Birding Association reminds us: “Respect for nature and wildlife comes before the photo.”
Keep the birds safe while you enjoy them.
9. Expand Your Knowledge as You Grow
Once you’ve seen your local birds, you might want more!
- Learn how to spot juvenile birds or ones going through molting.
- Watch for different behaviors: like mating dances or feeding tricks.
- Make a “life list”—a record of all the species you’ve seen.
You can also take courses like Cornell’s Bird Academy, or read books like Birding Without Borders by Noah Strycker.
10. Make Birdwatching a Lifelong Hobby
Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby—it’s a doorway to deeper experiences.
- Go on birding trips with local clubs.
- Try bird photography or drawing birds.
- Join events–you’ll be part of citizen science efforts to protect bird populations.
Some women I know even started bird clubs at retirement centers or taught their grandkids how to watch hummingbirds.
Once you start, you’ll never look at trees the same way again.
My Final Thoughts
Getting into birdwatching is easier than you think. You don’t need to be an expert.
You don’t need to go far. All it takes is curiosity, a bit of patience, and maybe a cup of coffee on your porch.
So pick up a pair of binoculars this weekend, step outside, and let the birds find you.
Which bird do you hope to spot first?
Last Updated on 6th May 2025 by Emma
