Viewing Tips

• Use binoculars or a spotting scope so you can view birds from a distance.
• A good birding field guide or manual is extremely useful in helping to identify or recognize birds. Excellent field guides are available at most large bookstores.
• When birding in Alabama, birders may find of value the book A Birder's Guide to Alabama, by John F. Porter, Jr. It is available from the University of Alabama Press.
• Dress comfortably for the season. Sunscreen or insect repellant may be of value in certain areas.
• In no-hunt areas, blend in with your surroundings — wear neutral-colored clothing and move slowly and quietly.
• While birding in areas where hunting is allowed, wear hunter orange to be more visible to hunting sportsmen.
• Birding is usually better away from roadsides. Explore areas away from your vehicle to better see and hear birds.
• Many birds are more easily heard than seen. Learn to recognize their calls and songs, as well as their appearance.
• Some birders like to keep a checklist of birds they’ve seen.
• Many birds are more active a certain times of the day. In most cases, birds are more active and more vocal in the early morning. Try birding early. The "early bird gets the worm," and you may see the early bird!
• Don’t forget — some birds such as owls, whip-poor-wills, or woodcock are most active at night. Try listening at night for nocturnal species.
• Go with a group! Check for the availability of other birders in your area, such as Audubon Societies or bird watching clubs. Other birders may help you identify birds and may know locations of excellent birding sites.
• Respect wildlife homes — leave nests and their occupants as you found them.
• Share your lunch only with other humans.
• Limit the use of recordings, calls, or whistles to attract birds.
• Leave pets at home.
• Obtain permission before entering on private land.
• Here is a link to the American Birding Association’s Code of Ethics: http://www.outdooralabama.com/watchable-wildlife/tips/. Review these guidelines and learn to be a responsible birder.
• In any area you bird - leave nothing but footprints, take home nothing but memories.
• Visit the North Alabama Birding Trail often!