Birdist Rule #23: Identify Your First Song Sparrow
October 13, 2016 —
Once you do, all of those other “little brown jobs” get a little less confusing.
Conservation
Birding
From how to get started to what you need and where to go.
Getting Started
Did you look out your window and see a bird today? Hear one while running errands? Congratulations! You’re a birder. It really is that easy. Of course, you might want to know the name of those species, or where you can find more birds. If you do, check out below for some birding basics.
Identifying Birds
Putting names to the birds you see can be a rewarding experience. A successful ID is the goal, but the journey is just as important. By trying to identify a species, you get to know the bird and its habitat better—by watching its movements, noting its field marks, considering its call. Whether you’re curious about a backyard visitor or stumped by a shorebird, we have a wealth of ID tips and skills for birders of all levels.
ID Tips and Skills
From warblers to woodpeckers, let us help you figure out what you're seeing—or hearing.
Help Me Out
Birding Advice
A funny thing happens once you start birding: It becomes hard to stop. New target species, goal destinations, how to keep improving your skills—it can be both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. From tips on how to find elusive species to helpful tech and best practices for the field, our ever-growing collection of advice and stories will help you expand your experience.
In the Field
Whether searching for a certain species or planning your next big trip, we have you covered.
Get Out There
Essential Reading
Foster your love for birds by feeding them at home, and be sure to check out our recommendations for binoculars and other gear.
The Birdist’s Rules of Birding
Contributor Nick Lund, aka The Birdist, regularly provides serious—as well as tongue-in-cheek—advice for new and experienced birders.
Learn the Rules
Most Recent Birding Stories
How to Recognize Six Warblers in Their Fall Feathers
October 07, 2016 —
Study the finer details of migrating warblers with our handy photo guide.
Birdist Rule #44: Learn to Love Landfills and Sewage Treatment Plants
October 06, 2016 —
Ah, the sweet smell of birding success.
Six Quick Questions to Help You Identify Red-Tailed Hawks
October 06, 2016 —
They're one of the most familiar raptor species in North America, but they can still be tricky to ID.
Explore our catalogue of over 800 North American Birds
Get Audubon in Your Inbox
Let us send you the latest in bird and conservation news.