For The Birds: Three tips that will make you a birder (and not just a bird-watcher)
- Jun 13, 2024
- Canadiana
- 3 minute read
Let’s talk turkey. For those unfamiliar with this community, the difference between a birder and a bird-watcher may seem like a minor detail.
But a growing number of Canadians have made the leap from being casual onlookers of our neighbourhood feathered friends (a bird-watcher) to actively seeking out opportunities to spot them in their more natural habitats (a birder).
According to Jody Allair, Director of Citizen Science and Community Engagement for Birds Canada, “All mid-to-large towns in Canada have a birding group or naturalist club”.
Given the popularity of the hobbies, let’s look at three tips that will take you from average backyard bird enthusiast to the proactive pursuit that defines the birder community.
Let’s talk turkey. For those unfamiliar with this community, the difference between a birder and a bird-watcher may seem like a minor detail.
But a growing number of Canadians have made the leap from being casual onlookers of our neighbourhood feathered friends (a bird-watcher) to actively seeking out opportunities to spot them in their more natural habitats (a birder).
According to Jody Allair, Director of Citizen Science and Community Engagement for Birds Canada, “All mid-to-large towns in Canada have a birding group or naturalist club”.
Given the popularity of the hobbies, let’s look at three tips that will take you from average backyard bird enthusiast to the proactive pursuit that defines the birder community.
Shazam for Songbirds
If you’ve ever listened to the high-pitched “tweet-tweet-tweet” of the rare prothonotary warbler online in hopes of recognizing its melodic calls in the wild, you’re probably a birder.
Although most folks enjoy their summer days starting with the cheerful songs of chickadees or robins, they aren’t likely to have a “bird songs and calls” playlist on Spotify. But for avid birders, having an easy reference on hand while actively pursuing one of their must-see species is both helpful to the chase and a strong indication of the lengths they will go to add another rare sighting to their list.
Out in the wild? Try one of the many bird-identifying apps like the Audubon Bird Guide or Merlin Bird ID. While these free resources will sharpen your birding skills, they also help researchers build databases that enhance their conservation efforts.
Wild Goose Chase
Watching birds from your backyard may be the best way to start, but if you want to expand your sighting list, get out there and explore!
Different birds prefer different habitats. From wetlands, to shorelines, and dense Boreal forests, traversing through new places will likely increase your odds of spotting a bird you’ve never seen before.
Even in highly urban areas, your nearest park could provide the right mix of nesting and feeding opportunities for a rare species that is only in that area while migrating during the spring and fall.
Do remember though – you’re venturing into their homes, so please be respectful. Avoid stressing the birds and exercise caution when approaching them. It’s also important to minimize disturbance to their habitat. A good rule of thumb is: only take photos and only leave footprints.
Flock Together
If you do decide to take your fledging hobby to the next level and become a birder, you’ll find your passion can bring you so much farther than the solidarity of your own space and land you in a flock of other bird-brains.
Indeed, you may find that your fascination for our feathered friends is actually one of the most popular pastimes with notoriously welcoming communities of similarly-minded enthusiasts. Look up your local birding group or check out Birds Canada to learn more about their Canada-wide community programs.
A Bird in the Hand
Whether you’re ready to fly-off on your own birding expedition or content just to appreciate our fine feathered friends wherever they find you, you might enjoy the newest piece in our Colourful Birds series featuring the American Goldfinch. It’s easy to see why this finch is a favourite of many birders and birdwatchers alike, its yellow-and-black plumage contrasting beautifully in this cheery countryside scene.
