How does a new birder get started? The only thing you really need to be a good birder is curiosity about the natural world. You can see birds everywhere, from the pigeons and sparrows of the city to the robins and jays of suburban neighborhoods to the meadowlarks and bluebirds of open fields. Look at each bird carefully, and if it helps, take notes on what you observe. What color is it, and where are the colors on the bird's body? What does the bill look like? Approximately how big is the bird? Importantly, note the habitat in which the bird appears. Some species, like Belted Kingfishers, are only found near water, while others, including Pine Warblers, prefer specific species of trees. The more you bird, the more these relationships will stand out to you. Although you don't need any special equipment for birding, there are a few tools to help make identification easier: Binoculars: Binoculars zoom in on the bird, making it easier to spot a bird's distinguishing field marks, or traits that make it look different from other species. Camera: If you have a camera, including one on a mobile phone, you can take a photo of the bird you see and use field guides or the internet to help make an identification.

If your camera has a zoom lens, take some close-up shots too! Field guide: Field guides are illustrated with drawings or photographs to show you how to tell different bird species apart. There are online field guides and apps, as well as printed field guides, including popular state-specific titles by Stan Tekiela. Notebook: Yes! A notebook (or a journal) is super helpful to keep track of the birds you see, the field marks you notice, and your observations about bird habitat.