Spring outdoor activities
why spring is the best time to start birdwatching
By Eleanor Davies
Published: 21 May 2025
Why Spring is the Best Time to Start Birdwatching
Okay, so picture this: it's March, maybe early April. You’ve just survived another winter, right? The days are gettin’ longer, there's a gentle breeze in the air, and everything's comin' back to life. Now, what if I told ya this is the perfect moment to get into birdwatching? Trust me; it’s not just for, you know, old folks. It's actually pretty awesome. I remember when I started, a friend, Sarah, dragged me along, and I was hooked after seeing a vibrant Northern Cardinal for the first time!
woman looking through binoculars in a blossoming orchard | Image: Supplied
The Great Migration: A Bird Buffet
Spring is like the Super Bowl for birdwatchers. Why? Migration, my friend. As the weather warms up, millions of birds fly back north to breed, turning your local park into a feathery carnival. You'll see species you never knew existed, like the Indigo Bunting with its crazy blue color or the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, buzzing around like tiny helicopters. I remember once, sitting in my backyard (which is nothin' special), and suddenly, a flock of Cedar Waxwings landed in my cherry tree. I swear, it was like a Disney movie come to life. Seriously, its one of those things you need to witness to beleive, beleive you me!
flock of colorful migratory birds flying over a forest | Image: Supplied
Easy on the Ears (and Eyes): Identifying Bird Songs
Another cool thing about spring? The birds are singin' their hearts out! It's mating season, so they're all trying to impress each other with their vocal talents. This makes it way easier to identify different species by their songs. Plus, early spring means fewer leaves on the trees, so you can actually see the birds you're hearing. I’m not gonna lie; at first, they all sounded the same to me. But after downloading a bird song ID app on my phone and listenin' intensley, it became like learnin' a new language. Now, I can tell a robin from a sparrow with my eyes closed!
person using a bird song identification app in a forest | Image: Supplied
Gear Up (But Keep it Simple!)
You don't need a ton of fancy equipment to get started. A good pair of binoculars is a must. Something with 8x42 magnification is a great all-around choice. A field guide (either a book or an app) will help you identify the birds you see. And that's pretty much it! Of course, comfy shoes are important too, because you might be doin' some walkin'. I started with an old pair of my grandfathers binoculars, and they worked just fine. Don't let gear be an excuse not to start. Oh, and maybe some bug spray—those mosquitos can be brutal!
birdwatching gear: binoculars, field guide, and notebook | Image: Supplied
Where to Watch: Your Backyard (and Beyond!)
You don't have to travel to some exotic location to see cool birds. Your own backyard is a great place to start! Put up a bird feeder, add a bird bath, and plant some native plants to attract local species. Local parks, nature reserves, and even cemeteries can be birding hotspots. Just get out there and explore! Once, I found a nest full of baby bluebirds right in the middle of town. You never know what you'll find.
bird feeder in a backyard garden | Image: Supplied
A Relaxing Hobby That Connects You With Nature
Birdwatching is more than just identifying birds; it’s a way to connect with nature, de-stress, and appreciate the beauty around you. It forces you to slow down, pay attention, and be present in the moment. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get some fresh air and exercise. In a world that's always rushin', birdwatching is like a little escape. Try it; who knows, you might just surprise yourself!
person sitting on a park bench, looking at birds | Image: Supplied
A Word of Caution... About the weather!
Spring weather, as we all know, can be a little... unpredictable. One day it's sunny and 70, the next it's rainin' sideways. Dress in layers, check the forecast before you go, and be prepared for anything. There's nothin' worse than bein' stuck in the middle of the woods in a downpour without a raincoat. Trust me, I’ve been there. Not fun!
person wearing a raincoat looking at birds in the rain | Image: Supplied
A Community of Bird Lovers
Birdwatching can be a solitary activity, but it doesn't have to be. There are birdwatching clubs and groups all over the world. Join one, and you'll meet other people who share your passion. You can learn from each other, share tips, and go on birding trips together. Plus, its a great way to expand your social circle. Turns out, there are a lot of really cool people who are into birds!
group of people birdwatching together in a park | Image: Supplied
So, What are you waiting for?
Spring is the perfect time to dive into the world of birdwatching. It's easy, affordable, and a great way to connect with nature. So grab your binoculars, download a bird ID app, and get out there and start exploring. Who knows, you might just discover a new passion. And you might just start seein' the world in a whole new way.
