Identifying birds is an important part of birds watching. It is just one factor involved in the pastime of bird watching, yet it makes the activity more fun to be able to put a name to the bird you are looking at. Not every bird is as easily recognized as the Cardinal and the Robin though. Here are a few tips on how to identify birds in your backyard or a park setting.
Assessing the Size and Shape of the Bird
One factor in identifying a bird is to note the bird's size and shape. Note the length, the width, the type of body and legs the bird has. The plumage and color are also a good indicator of a bird's species. The bill or beak is also something to look for. Note the shape, color and length of the beak to help narrow down your search.
Listening to the Backyard Birds
Different species of birds make their own unique sounds. They may sing, chirp, coo, or make some other type of call. Knowing what types of birds make each type of sound will help you to properly identify birds in your back yard. Listening to tapes of bird sounds may help you identify them when you hear them at home.
Identifying Birds by Their Behavior
Watching how a bird behaves can give you a lot of clues when trying to identify birds. Note how the bird feeds, what type of food it likes to eat, where it nests, how it flies and any other ways in which the bird behaves. The personality of the bird can be seen by bird watching too. Notice if the bird is friendly or is easily scared. All of these facts will help you determine the exact species you have had the pleasure to spot.
Location, Location, Location
A wetland bird and a woodland bird will live in very different places. Knowing the type of area you live in and what type of birds are typically discovered there will help you narrow your search as your try to identify birds. Does the bird migrate in the winter? What is the climate like? These are all good indicators of what type of bird you are likely to see.
Help Identifying Birds
Computer programs and field guide books are great resources for the novice and expert bird watcher alike. You can also check the programs at your local parks for information on indentifying birds specific to your region.
