Hobbies On The Road: Birdwatching
Birdwatching is one of the most interesting hobbies to participate in during your RV travels. "Birding," as many bird aficionados would call it, provides entertainment, education, and something to look forward to as you make your way back and forth across the great American continent. It also provides a perfect opportunity to get outside, stretch your legs, and spend time enjoying Mother Nature's blessings.
Whether you are adept at differentiating between a Western Scrub Jay and a Mountain Blue Bird, or can't tell Bald Eagles from Turkey Vultures, birding picks up where you're at and moves you to the next level. You're probably familiar with the species of birds that visit your backyard feeder, but RV traveling allows you to identify wild birds in everyone else's backyards too.
Here are helpful tips on how to incorporate birdwatching into your future adventures.
Birding 101
Step 1: Invest In a Good Birding Book. There are dozens of birding books on the market. It's worthwhile to visit some local bookstores and decide which book you like the best. You might even enjoy having a couple of different versions. They come in a variety of sizes and layouts, so find one you can easily navigate. Make sure the pictures are easy to see. Even more preferable is a book that includes plenty of pictures of both males and females. Similar to our own species, the coloring and markings can be vastly different.
Step 2: Get Out Those Dusty Binoculars. Alas, most birds do not trust close proximity to humans. Unless you are feeding the pigeons, you'll most likely need a good pair of binoculars to accurately identify a bird perched at a safe distance.
Step 3: Learn To Recognize Bird Calls. If you are at all musically inclined, or enjoy listening to music, a CD of bird calls or a visit to an audio-birding website, can greatly enhance your ability to identify a particular bird. It is common for birds to be heard before they are seen. You'll impress your friends upon exclaiming, "Hark! I hear the song of a Yellow Warbler." Then you and your trusty birding companions can grab the binoculars and start looking for him.
One of the best resources for all things related to birds - and birdwatching - is the Audubon Society website. But watch out! Birdwatching can become addictive. Good luck with your new found hobby and, like the pros say, "Happy Birding!"
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