Tips
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mike Baird
Birders identify species by sight and sound. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds suggests focusing on the size, shape and color of a bird as well as the habitat in which it is found. Take notes on distinguishing field marks and compare them to photographs or drawings in field guides.
Field Guides
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Books on bird identification, known as field guides, are designed to be carried easily on outdoor birding excursions. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds publishes several field guides, from general guides to books focusing on backyard bird species.
Audio Identification
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mark Robinson
Ornithologists record bird sounds in the wild and compile them in digital audio format. Use compact discs playable by species to verify sounds heard in the field.
Online Identification
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The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds' website hosts an interactive online British bird identifier featuring 259 of the most prominent species in Great Britain.
Bird Clubs
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Novice birders find mentors in bird clubs. British bird clubs range from neighborhood to national organizations.
