ID Tips

How to Recognize Six Warblers in Their Fall Feathers
October 07, 2016 — Study the finer details of migrating warblers with our handy photo guide.
Five Ways to Troubleshoot Your Birding Problems
July 08, 2016 — When your bird guide isn't getting it done, try these hacks and alternatives to make a better ID.
A green bunting takes a water bath surrounded by drops.
How to Identify Birds: 8 Clues From Kenn Kaufman
April 21, 2016 — Color is one of the last clues experienced birders use. "Audubon" magazine's Field Editor Kenn Kaufman explains eight more reliable tools for identifying any bird.
Birding 101
A Beginner’s Guide to IDing Cooper’s and Sharp-Shinned Hawks
September 18, 2015 — The differences are subtle, but shape and size can help in a big way.
How to Tell a Hairy Woodpecker From a Downy Woodpecker
February 13, 2015 — Size and tail color are two of the biggest clues when deciphering these two backyard regulars.
How to Tell a Raven From a Crow
October 22, 2012 — These black birds may belong to the same family and look similar in some ways, but several distinctive traits help set them apart.