What child hasn't been delighted to see his first bird up close? Maybe it was a
humble sparrow or a squawking seagull - whatever they are, birds are a natural
delight to watch and can be seen anywhere in the world.
If you are
looking for an activity that you can enjoy with your children, whether they're
five or 15, you might want to consider the popular hobby of bird watching. It is
one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in America - and a great way for
families to enjoy time together.
'What IS Bird Watching?'
Bird
watching is more than just observing birds. It is an interest in the actual
birds - their names, markings, activities, songs and habitats. Not only does it
encourage a child (or an adult) to learn about birds, but gets them outside and
builds an appreciation of local wildlife and nature.
Bird watching
doesn't require a strong knowledge of birds; you can learn with your children as
you begin to locate and identify local wild birds. You can keep a list of the
birds you've spotted and help one another identify what you've seen by making
notes of the color, size and markings on the bird. You may even start to learn
their calls and can challenge yourself to identify the birds by their songs.
'Where Can We Go to Bird Watch?'
Bird watching can be as simple
an activity as setting up a bird feeder in your backyard and watching the local
wild birds that come to you. However, your children will no doubt appreciate
time spent outdoors, properly geared up for an outing of bird watching with you.
You will soon learn about the specific habitats that birds live in
around your home. As you become familiar with local birds you may even want to
take trips to areas that will feature different species than you have locally.
Watch as your children eagerly try to identify these new birds before you do!
'What Do We Need?'
Bird watching is a very inexpensive hobby. If
you are going to be outside you will want everyone to have proper attire -
including an extra pair of socks and a hat.
Other than that you will
need at least one pair of binoculars, although it is more fun if everyone has
their own pair so nobody misses out on a sighting. A bird book (called a field
guide) will help you to identify the birds you see. You should find one that
features birds in your area since it will also give you suggestions about where
to find them.
If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching
bug, you should also take a notepad and camera. Take notes on birds you can't
identify and look them up at home with your children to determine what you saw.
You might also develop a list of local birds and check them off as you see them.
This is great for kids who thrive on challenge!
Bird watching is a
fantastic hobby that the whole family can enjoy. Try it one afternoon and see
for yourself how your family bonds while enjoying the fresh air and local
scenery!
HOME 
