Birding

From how to get started to what you need and where to go.

Birds are all around us.

They’re huddling in the shrubs outside of our apartments, bopping around our backyards, and foraging at local parks and lakes. No matter where you live, birds are nearby, just waiting for you to notice them. And once you do, you might find it hard to stop. That’s because birding—the act of appreciating and observing birds—not only provides a new perspective on the natural world, but it also delivers an immense sense of joy and satisfaction. So what are you waiting for?

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. 

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.

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. 

Bird Feeding and Care
Gear and Resources

Most Recent Birding Stories 

Remember that Audubon depends on your support to do the conservation work that we do.
Dark-eyed Juncos, Backyard Gems, Come in a Dazzling Array of Colors
March 01, 2019 — The six flavors of junco were long considered separate species. Recent science shows that they instead boldly exhibit evolution in real time.
Want a Training Ground for Your Birding Skills? Try Patch Birding
February 28, 2019 — Birders around the world are immersing themselves in nearby nature, and you can, too.
Take the John James Audubon ‘Birds of America’ Quiz
February 27, 2019 — We've chosen excerpts from 15 of JJA's original writings. Can you guess which bird he was describing?
How Kenn Met Kimberly—and 13 Other Birdy Love Stories
February 14, 2019 — From the City of Angels to the tip of Andes, these couples all have one thing in common.
Will You Still Love the Hot Duck When He Looks Like This?
February 06, 2019 — Big changes are coming for Central Park’s beloved bachelor. Mandarin fans, meet molting.