All you need to do is look.
As Daniela says, birds are all around us, you just have to look.
Birds are a critical part of our world. Everywhere around the globe to the trees right outside your home.
Taking a closer look at these beautiful animals is not only a fun challenge but opens the door to a whole new perspective on nature and an inviting community to join.
No binoculars needed
Although very recommended at a certain point, you don’t need binoculars to start bird watching (also known as birding in the community).
You can step outside and just focus a more on the birds you see around you.
It takes some time to get used to finding and focusing on the birds. Often times, you’ll need to stand around for a bit for the birds to get comfortable with your presence.
As always, for all outdoors activities, we recommend wearing sunscreen and bringing a full water bottle.
Respect the habitats
When engaging with nature, it’s our responsibility to leave the environment as when we arrived. For birding, it’s heavily discouraged to feed the birds and leave the nature path.
Birding is about observing and enjoying the uniqueness of each bird. There’s so much to enjoy in just that.
Read more about the birding code of ethics here, written by American Birding Association:
Your local birding group
Nearly every city or township has a local birding organization. They’re groups where birding hobbyist come together to share what birds they’ve seen in the area and spend time together. They’re warm groups that often times host bird walks for you to join as a first timer.
Check out this birding group to see how they work:
Chicago BIPOC Birders.
Birding Festivals
Birds are all over the world. And many of these area’s local birding organizations come together to create a multi-day birding festival. These events are opportunities to head to a new area and see their local birds. They’re filled with activities from unique bird walks to presentations.
See how this festival, The Urban Birding Festival, brings together birders in Chicago.
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These are guided tours led by an experienced birder. They typically focus on a specific area and the birds that inhabit them.
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Like many festivals, there's a spot where local orgs and vendors set up, giving you a space to browse what's out there. A chance to see what other birding opportunities are out there and check out new tools.
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If you want to expand your birding knowledge, festivals host presentations and talks led by experts in various bird-related fields.
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Outside of birding, it's an opportunity to meet other like-minded folks. Social events are organized to kickback and hangout.
Discover more hobbies.
Yo-yo
Cycling
Embroidery
Discover more of Daniela’s birding journey on Instagram @latina.birder.