Watching birds requires two tools:  an identification guide to birds (commonly referred to as a field guide) and a pair of binoculars.

Field Guides

Using a field guide to birds is one of the best ways to learn the identity of the wild birds visiting your bird feeders.  Field guides come in all shapes and sizes, but should contain illustrations of the bird, a map of the bird’s range, and a physical description.  Because the number of birds that frequent your yard is less than the total number of birds in your general region, consider a field guide or identification sheet that concentrates on backyard birds. 

How to Select and Use Binoculars

Binoculars allow for an up close and personal look at our feathered friends.  Binoculars are described with two numbers that are separated with a "x" (i.e., 8 x 40).  The first number is the magnification, and the higher the magnification, the closer the object will appear.  For example, binoculars with 8x magnification make the object appear 8 times its actual size.  7x, 8x, and 10x are some of the most popular for bird watching.  The second number is the width in millimeters of the objective lens and it indicates your ability to see in low light.  The larger the number, the better your ability to see during low light conditions such as dawn, dusk, or days with heavy cloud cover. 

To use binoculars first find a bird that you want a closer look at.  While looking at the bird, do not move your head and bring the binoculars up to your eyes.  Adjust the focus to get a sharper image of the object and you should be viewing the bird up close.

Learning how to use binoculars requires patience and practice.  Practice using your binoculars by selecting a non-moving object with your unaided eyes and bringing your binoculars to your eyes without moving your head.  Repeat this several times and the movement will begin to become quick and automatic.  With more practice you will be ready to go bird watching.