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Welcome to the Dark Side: Your Guide to Nocturnal Migration Birding
April 04, 2022 —
Here’s everything you need to join a growing DIY community where the action heats up when the sun goes down.
Birding
From how to get started to what you need and where to go.
Getting Started
Did you look out your window and see a bird today? Hear one while running errands? Congratulations! You’re a birder. It really is that easy. Of course, you might want to know the name of those species, or where you can find more birds. If you do, check out below for some birding basics.
Identifying Birds
Putting names to the birds you see can be a rewarding experience. A successful ID is the goal, but the journey is just as important. By trying to identify a species, you get to know the bird and its habitat better—by watching its movements, noting its field marks, considering its call. Whether you’re curious about a backyard visitor or stumped by a shorebird, we have a wealth of ID tips and skills for birders of all levels.
ID Tips and Skills
From warblers to woodpeckers, let us help you figure out what you're seeing—or hearing.
Help Me Out
Birding Advice
A funny thing happens once you start birding: It becomes hard to stop. New target species, goal destinations, how to keep improving your skills—it can be both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. From tips on how to find elusive species to helpful tech and best practices for the field, our ever-growing collection of advice and stories will help you expand your experience.
In the Field
Whether searching for a certain species or planning your next big trip, we have you covered.
Get Out There
Essential Reading
Foster your love for birds by feeding them at home, and be sure to check out our recommendations for binoculars and other gear.
The Birdist’s Rules of Birding
Contributor Nick Lund, aka The Birdist, regularly provides serious—as well as tongue-in-cheek—advice for new and experienced birders.
Learn the Rules
Most Recent Birding Stories
From House Finches to President Loki: The Surprises You Find When You Get Outside
March 01, 2022 —
How one afternoon of birdwatching for Gaby Sotelo turned into a weekend—and perhaps a lifetime—full of birds.
The ‘Big Boom Theory’ That Could Help Conserve Common Nighthawks
January 14, 2022 —
New research confirms that males’ wing-boom sound marks hard-to-find nesting sites—a boon for efforts to save these mysterious, declining birds.
How You Can Help Make Birding More Welcoming and Inclusive
January 14, 2022 —
It's easy to create a friendly and encouraging birding community when you keep these pointers in mind.
Meet the Bird Guide and Blogger on a Mission to Keep Women Birders Safe
January 07, 2022 —
Tiffany Kersten spent 2021 shining a light on the dangers many birders face in the field—and broke a birding record along the way.
10 Fun Facts about the House Finch
December 21, 2021 —
These common and adaptable birds provide a welcome pop of color at feeders from coast to coast. But they weren’t always so ubiquitous.
10 Fun Facts About the Red-tailed Hawk
December 03, 2021 —
There’s a lot to love about this familiar raptor, from its courtship acrobatics to its masterful hunting.
Ask Kenn: What’s Up With Bird Color Morphs and Phases?
November 24, 2021 —
In some species, many adults wear different color patterns from others. Kenn Kaufman explains the phenomenon, and the lingo to describe it.
A New Stunning Nest Guide Celebrates a Different Aspect of Birding
November 23, 2021 —
The Peterson series displays the variety in crafted structures of a whopping 650 species. Co-author David Moskowitz shares insights from the field.
Explore our catalogue of over 800 North American Birds
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