Introduction to Birding
A whole world.
Just outside.
You do not need to know every bird’s name. Start by noticing one.
Birding is a way to slow down, listen and discover the life around you—from a window, a city park or a path you already know.
Look. Listen. Get curious.
Birding means observing wild birds and taking an interest in what they do. Identifying a species can be rewarding, but watching how a bird feeds, moves or interacts is part of the pleasure too.
Notice the details
Look at shape, relative size, colours and movement. Stay with what you can actually observe.
Follow the sound
Pause before moving on. Bird calls can reveal activity you have not yet seen.
Ask a question
What is it feeding on? Why that perch? A question is a useful beginning—even without a name.
“A bird does not sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.”
Maya Angelou
Your first 15 minutes of birding.
Choose a familiar, accessible place where you can stop safely. There is no target species and no score to beat.
1. Pause for a moment.
Let your eyes settle. Scan the ground, shrubs and sky, and listen for movement.
2. Follow one bird.
Watch its shape, movement and behaviour. Compare its size with a bird you already know.
3. Keep a small note.
Write down the date, broad location and two or three details. Add a sketch or photo if you like.
4. Look it up afterwards.
Use a regional guide or ask the community. An uncertain identification can stay uncertain.
Curiosity first. Equipment second.
Your eyes and ears
You can start without buying anything. Revisit one familiar place and notice what changes.
Binoculars, if you have them
Borrow a pair before choosing your own. Practise focusing on a still object, then try a bird at a comfortable distance.
A notebook or phone
Record what you notice. A regional field guide can help compare possibilities; a camera is optional.
Enjoy the moment.
Give wildlife space.
Keep your distance from birds and nests. If a bird changes its behaviour because of you, move back. Stay on permitted routes, respect private land and take litter home.
Avoid drawing attention to sensitive nest or roost locations. A good observation does not need to become a close-up.
Learn a little. Share a little.
Bring your questions and discoveries to iGoBirding. Find people with similar interests, explore photography and keep building your knowledge at your own pace.
Looking for a course? Ask us about current learning opportunities.
Start
Make an incredible learning experience
Although eLearning is based on being behind your computer, it is a great way to start your learning process. Learn the basics of birds, conservation or photography.
Gradually we will be adding more and more courses in I Go Birding.
Practice
Learn By doing
The best way of learning is by doing, Just join other people with the same interests, go Birding alone, or join interactive training sessions with I Go Birging.
Teach & Share
Share your knowdlege
If you love teaching and sharing your experience and knowledge on birds, conservation and nature, I Go Birding is the place! Participate on discussion forums, challenge species identified in photos, write a specialized blog, Contact us to become one of our trainer and create you own course!
Planning
Make an incredible learning experience
Although eLearning is based on formalized learning, it is provided through electronic devices such as Electronic learning, is the delivery of learning and training through digital resources computers, tablets and even cellular phones that are connected to the internet.
Advance
Get to the next level
Join advanced activities, from online course, webinars or activities in the field. Discuss in scientific discusión forums with peers from all around the world.
Your next discovery can be close to home.
Start small. Keep looking. There is always more to notice.
Exclusive training
Join Our Introductory Course
Ready to take flight into the world of birding? — Our free introductory course is the perfect place to start. Learn the essentials, from identifying common species to understanding bird behavior. Sign up now and start your adventure!