Birding
← Back to February — Trip Planning & Navigation
Birding pairs naturally with February's navigation theme — winter waterfowl and raptors concentrate at open water, and the Great Backyard Bird Count (mid-February) is one of the biggest citizen-science events of the year.
REC Safe Birding
Our R.E.C. Tenets, applied in the field:
- R — Respectful
of nests and habitat - E — Educated
know your calls/species - C — Considerate
leashed dogs, quiet approach
Top 10 Birding Safety Tips
- Dress in muted colors and move slowly and quietly. Bright colors and noise scatter birds before you ever see them.
- Learn a few local calls. You'll find far more birds by ear than by sight alone.
- Never approach a nest closely, especially during breeding season — stress can cause parents to abandon eggs or chicks.
- Watch your footing, not just your binoculars. Twisted ankles are the most common birding injury.
- Dress for standing still in the cold longer than you expect — birding involves a lot of waiting.
- Bring water and sun protection even on short outings — birders often stay out much longer than planned.
- Respect private property and posted closures, especially near sensitive habitat.
- Use a field guide or app (like Merlin or eBird) to confirm identifications.
- Keep dogs leashed or left home. Off-leash pets flush birds and disturb ground nesters.
- Tell someone where you're headed if birding alone in remote or wetland terrain.
Recommended Items to Bring
- Binoculars
- Field guide or birding app (Merlin, eBird)
- Notebook or phone for logging sightings
- Weather-appropriate layers in muted colors
- Sturdy, waterproof footwear
- Sun protection — hat and sunscreen
- Water and snacks
- Insect repellent
- Camera with zoom lens (optional)
- Small first aid kit
New to birding? Local Audubon chapters and nature centers often run free guided walks — a great low-pressure way to learn from experienced birders.
See also: How to use a compass and Top 10 Trip Planning & Navigation Safety Tips.