Birdwatching is a fun activity that requires very little equipment. However, there are a few essentials that would make your birdwatching trips better, and can even help you to see more birds in the process.
Several people have asked me about what to bring while birdwatching, especially beginners and those who are considering trying birdwatching for the first time. In this post, I share 6 of my birdwatching must-haves.
Binoculars
Binoculars are a vital piece of equipment for any birdwatcher, as they can help you see how birds behave, react and live up close, without disturbing their peace or distracting them in the process.
If you do not have a pair of binoculars yet, I highly recommend my blog post on selecting your first pair of binoculars for birdwatching and how to use binoculars.
Your Preferred Recording Device
There are many options here. You can do it the classic way and bring a notebook and pen, or you can use a bird identification app or simply take notes on your phone. The point is, to be able to record and describe the birds you are seeing on that particular day.
Insect Repellant
This is another birdwatching essential because where there are birds, there will most likely be insects. Going out in nature without insect repellant can cause insects to bite you, and cause discomfort and even pain in certain cases.
If you don’t want your birdwatching trip to be cut short, make sure to have some insect repellant handy.
Proper Footwear
When you go birdwatching in the forest, wetlands, or some sort of nature reserve, you will need some durable and comfortable footwear as you will be standing and walking around for extended periods.
A soft and comfortable pair of boots or sneakers are vital to ensure you feel comfortable out in the wild, no matter the weather. It also would not hurt to bring a hat to protect your eyes from the sun.
A Field Guide
Just like your recording device, having a field guide is a vital tool when birdwatching, especially when travelling to unfamiliar locations. You can have the guide on your phone or bring an actual book or brochure. It all depends on your preference.
A Camera With Spare Batteries Or Charger
If you’re going on an extended holiday or a birdwatching safari, it is also recommended to bring a camera so you can take pictures of the birds you observe and capture some good memories along the way. Newer phones with good-quality cameras are also recommended and are much handier to carry around.
Some extra storage for photos will also come in handy, may it be a hard drive or film roll. Some people also prefer a tape recorder or audio apps on the phone over a camera to record specific birdcalls for easier identification, and that’s completely fine and up to your preference.
And that concluded my list of essentials for birdwatching. For more birdwatching tips and guides, visit the Neil Hermes blog and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
The Leading Birding Tours in Australia | Neil Hermes: Our Ornithologist
A scientist by background, and a keen Ornithologist. Neil has lived in Canberra for over 50 years and has decades of experience in the tourism industry. He has turned his talents to guiding guests around Canberra which he called home for most of his life.
