Now that you’re retired, you probably have more free time on your hands than you’re used to. The time you used to spend working — or thinking about work — can now be dedicated to other hobbies that help you lead a fulfilling life.
One hobby growing in popularity in the U.S. is birdwatching. Over a third of Americans participate in birdwatching, and that number grows every year. Birding is perfect for older adults — it’s low impact while still providing an exercise benefit, it gets you outside enjoying fresh air, and it’s accessible to people at all mobility levels.
Best of all, it’s easy to start birdwatching regardless of your experience level. Here’s what you need to know about birdwatching for beginners.
Birding 101: Birdwatching for beginners
While you don’t need much to get started with birding, some prep helps you have a more enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for identifying and observing birds and making sure you have the right birdwatching equipment.
Birding gear for beginners
All you really need to begin are your eyes and access to the outdoors, but getting the right gear can enhance your experience. Here are some examples of budget-friendly equipment that can maximize your enjoyment of birding:
- Binoculars: Binoculars help people with low vision to see objects far away more clearly, which can help you identify the defining features of the birds.
- Field guides: Apps like Audubon or region-specific birding books can help you recognize and identify birds accurately.
- Comfortable outdoor gear: The great thing about birding is that it can be a year-round hobby, if you’re prepared for fall and winter activities. You likely will want to wear clothes that are comfortable to move in and protect you from the elements, like waterproof jackets and supportive walking shoes. And don’t forget bug spray.
Top tips for noticing and recognizing birds
There are more than 800 species of birds living in the U.S. When first starting, you might not be able to tell one bird from another. But as you hone your observation skills and lean on your field guides, you’ll learn how to identify them in no time.
Rather than trying to name every bird you see on your first few outings, begin by observing the basic characteristics and differences between the birds you see. Pay attention to defining characteristics like:
- Size
- Shape
- Color patterns
- Sounds
- Behavior
Soon, you’ll begin noticing the qualities of birds and knowing what family they belong to just by looking at them.
How to get better at observing birds
Like any other hobby, it’s important to pace yourself. Instead of trying to become an expert overnight, start by taking in small details.
For example:
- Focus on one bird at a time rather than try to take in an entire flock at once. Try to spot a sparrow before trying to distinguish it from a finch.
- Note identifying details like size, shape, color, and the time of year you see them.
- Listen to bird songs with your eyes closed to notice the difference in trills.
Where to go birdwatching
Another benefit to birdwatching is that birds are relatively common and can be seen almost anywhere. While some birds might be native to certain locales and have migration patterns that put them in a specific part of the world at a particular time of year, you can still find birds native to your neighborhood, city, or state.
Some places to start birding:
- In your backyard: If you go outside and look up, you might see a few birds. To attract more to your backyard, tend to your garden or put out a birdfeeder.
- Local parks and nature centers: A little further out than your backyard, look to nature centers and parks where you can find a wider variety of wild birds.
- Birdwatching trails: Some trails are specifically designed for birding and are home to unique populations of birds. Check your local listings to find one near you.
- Join a birdwatching group: Birdwatching in groups can help increase your enjoyment of the hobby and help you learn faster, especially if there are birding experts in your group.
Connect with your community as a birdwatcher
Birding is an enjoyable, low-impact hobby that is accessible to retirees. It soothes your heart, costs very little, and gets you out of the house for some much-needed fresh air. Even better, you get to learn new things — and learning as you age can help cognitive function.
Whether you’re getting started or continuing your birding journey, engage in your community to learn more about wildlife and the best birding areas around you.
