Recommended Field Trip Equipment List
If you're joining us on a field trip (or going birding
by yourself), you should bring
along these items to maximize your enjoyment:
Binoculars
- Any will do if this is your first trip. But if you're going
to be serious about this, you'll want to make a relatively large
investment. Plan on at least $200 for birding-quality
binoculars. The more you spend, the more people will think you're
a terrific birder. We do look at each other's "bins" and
make instant and completely unjustifiable judgments about your birding prowess
based on what's hanging around your neck. Please note that on our field trips,
we will provide a limited supply of
loaners. Bring your own if you can.
A field guide - We recommend Kenn Kaufman's as a basic
beginner's guide, although there are many others to choose from.
Something to carry the field guide in - If you're carrying
Kaufman's, it'll fit in a back jeans pocket (which is another reason why
I like it). For anything else, you'll need a big jacket pocket,
vest, or
a pack of some sort. Whatever you do, don't just carry it around
in your hand...you need two hands for the binoculars. It's better
not to carry a guide at all if you don't have any place to carry it.
A hat - All birders must have a wacky hat, although please see
below regarding the color. And when it comes to
hats, the
dirtier the better.
Clothing color - Please avoid pure white hats, shirts, slacks or
jackets. Off white or beige is OK. And stay away
from bright colors. Earth tones are best. Your goal is to
look like walking mulch.
Comfortable walking shoes - that you don't mind getting dirty.
Birders often take the muddy trail.
Other Birding Resources
The Universal Laws of Birding
Recommended Field Trip Equipment List
The Compleat Birder
A Guide to Not Mis-Identifying Birds
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