The Joy of Watching and Knowing Birds

Watching birds is a lovely hobby, to learn about native and migrating feathered friends. And a wonderful way to appreciate nature.

How to Look at a Bird is a beautifully illustrated guide for beginner birdwatchers, by acclaimed naturalist and artist Clare Walker Leslie.

Using her signature nature journal illustrations, she shows readers the key clues to look for – from the shape of the beak or talons to distinctive feather colours, flight patterns and behaviour traits.

Find simple prompts to encourage readers to ask how the bird is moving or eating and what season is it?

• If you live with cats, keep them indoors at dusk and dawn, when garden birds are feeding.
• Don’t feed birds stale, mouldy or crusty bread (nor buttered bread, fat can smear on feathers, affecting weatherproofing and insulation).
• Never use brightly-coloured or tin bird houses (they overheat and attract predators).
• Read more on create safe havens for garden birds, and how to stop birds flying into windows 
• Don’t play birdsong near birds, it can confuse and attract predators.

Where to Buy Good Birdwatching Binoculars

It’s important not to disturb birds, when watching them. So a good pair of binoculars is key. Most people can’t afford hundreds of pounds to buy ones. RSPB Puffin Binoculars are designed for children (only cost around £30) and are small and lightweight, so pretty good for most adults too.

Not many people want to lug around heavy binoculars. They are easy to hold still, and offer a wide field of view and sharp image quality. They also include a case and wrist strap, and are sold with a 1-year warranty.