Bird Watching Gear: What You Need

Are you ready to embark on a bird watching adventure? If your answer to this question is yes, then you need to stock up on some bird watching gear. There are quite a few items that no avid bird watcher should be without. The most obvious of supplies is your optics. You will find a great variety of bird watching binoculars that can help you get the best view possible of the birds you are seeking. The key is to find a pair that offers power, compact size, and a good warranty plan. Binoculars can be expensive so a warranty is a good thing to have. You may also want some special scopes which can help you get an even better view.

Then you'll need a way to record notes about the birds you find. The traditional way is to use a pen and paper, but many of today's bird watchers are going high tech. With a sensitive, small sized tape recorder you can whisper your notes and write them down later. Most recorders of this type can be held and operated with one hand, leaving your other hand free. You may also want to carry a good digital camera. Choose the highest pixel level that you can afford and make sure you're getting a fast shutter speed for best results. Many cameras have image stabilization as well which can be very helpful for bird watchers.

Another necessary item is a bird identification book. Many people like small books which can fit easily into a bag or even your pocket. There are books that are focused on local areas of the world as well as books that are more comprehensive. You may want a birds of the world type of book for your home library and a regional identification guide to take with you on your bird watching trips. One good title for general bird watching is Getting Started in Bird Watching by Edward W. Cronin and Gordon Morrison.

Bird watching gear also includes clothing and apparel. A hat is a must to keep the sun off your face. A hat can also shield your face, which is quite reflective, from birds. Birds can easily see reflective surfaces so a hat can help you get closer to birds without scaring them away. You will also want to purchase appropriate clothing for your excursions. Always wear comfortable shoes and be sure to pack sunscreen and bug repellant before heading out.



BIRD WATCHING IN CANADA




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msnbc.com

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Fox News
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A snowy owl soars over Harbor Centre Marina in November in Sheboygan. .
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