Bird watching is, next to gardening, the fastest growing hobby in America. Birding gets you outside into the fresh air and engages you with nature. Birds are amazing creatures. The variety of size, shape, and color provides interest and can draw you into the fascinating science of ornithology - the study of birds.
A whole new world of day trips and hikes opens up an opportunity to exercise or merely take in some beautiful scenery. Suddenly, you become familiar with local parks, hiking trails, and various natural settings.
All you need to get started in bird watching is a pair of binoculars and a field guide to birds of your area. Browse your field guide to familiarize yourself with the kinds of birds you may see in your region. You can decide to look for particular birds in their habitat.
The kinds of birds you are likely to see also depends on the time of year. Check the field guide for birds that nest in the area in which you live or look for migratory birds in the spring and fall. Arctic birds that winter in temperate climates make bird watching interesting in the winter.
You don't even have to exert yourself. You can birdwatch in your own back yard. Encourage birds to visit your home by providing water and food. Many bird sanctuaries encourage you to stay in your ca so as not to disturb habitat. A car makes an excellent blind from which to view birds.
So, being disabled, elderly, or merely reluctant to hike is no impediment to bird watching. Retirees can find a new interest - great for the old brain. Homeschooling parents can use bird watching as a lesson in the natural sciences.
If you are a people-person, or would like some personal training, join a local birding club. Such groups can be found through the National Audubon Society or your state Ornithological Club. Watch for bird walks at local parks or through your local recreation club. Led by experienced birders, you'll learn where to look for birds, how to behave while birding and may even learn to recognize birds through their song.
Make sure you wear neutral colors when you birdwatch. Birds are highly sensitive to color so you should blend in with your surroundings. It's best to use quiet voices and avoid loud and sudden noises so as not to frighten birds away. Standing still and keeping quiet will allow birds to get used your presence.
Birdwatching is an easy, engaging hobby that opens your eyes and engages your senses. It is inexpensive and environmentally safe.
For more information, links, photos, and videos, check out -
http://hubpages.com/hub/BirdWatching---ABeginersGuidetoBirdWatching
Learn how to attract birds to your yard with pictures, videos, and links at -
http://hubpages.com/hub/BackYardBirdSanctuary---AttractBirds-oYourYard
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