Bird watching, also known as birding, is a popular hobby for nature enthusiasts around the world. Keeping track of the different species of birds you see can be a rewarding part of the birding experience. A bird sighting log allows you to record details about the birds you observe so you can keep track of the diversity of species and learn more about bird behavior and migration patterns over time.
Why keep a log of bird sightings?
There are several benefits to keeping a detailed log of the birds you see:
- It creates a record of all the species you have observed, along with details like location, date and time. This helps you keep track of your total life list if you are interested in counting species.
- It allows you to look back on what birds you saw at a specific location and time of year. This can help identify patterns of migration and seasonal abundances over the years.
- Detailed notes allow you to compare differences you observe in plumage, behavior or sounds to help accurately identify species, especially those that are new to you.
- If you submit records to citizen science databases, detailed documentation helps provide scientists with valuable data about bird distributions and movements.
- Reviewing your logs can bring back fond memories of meaningful bird sightings over the years. The records tell a story of your birding experiences.
How to start a bird list
To begin logging your bird sightings, first choose your record-keeping format. Paper notebooks or journals, printed checklists, index cards, and computer documents or online apps are all options for data collection. Think about which method will be most practical for your needs.
Here are some tips for starting your bird sighting log:
- Record the common name and scientific name for each species. Include the Latin names if known as they are more precise.
- Note the location name, GPS coordinates if available, date and time.
- Write down details about the observation such as numbers of birds, sex if known, behaviors, sounds, plumage features, habitat, weather conditions and length of observation.
- For rare or difficult to identify species, document diagnostic field marks and take photographs if possible.
- Leave room in your chosen format to add details and update records later if needed.
What to include in each entry
Each time you record a bird sighting, include as many pertinent details as possible, such as:
- Common name and scientific name
- Location name and GPS coordinates
- Date and time
- Number observed and sex if known
- Behavior notes (examples: foraging, nesting, singing)
- Plumage characteristics
- Unique field marks
- Vocalizations
- Habitat notes
- Weather conditions
- Distance from observer
- Duration of observation
- Identification confidence (Were there challenges IDing the bird?)
- Photographs if available
- Other details that may aid identification
Choosing your bird sighting log format
You can record your bird sightings in a variety of formats. Consider what will be most convenient for your needs.
Paper notebook or journal
A traditional paper notebook or journal allows you to take notes by hand in the field. Choose one that is pocket-sized and durable. Notebook pages can also be hole-punched and kept in a binder for organization.
Printable checklists
Printable checklists allow you to note each species you see by checking boxes or filling in fields. Regional bird checklists are available online. Customize them or design your own for frequently visited locations.
Index cards
Sturdy index cards work well for keeping records of sightings. Portability and the ability to rearrange species make them a good choice. Use one card per species or a new card for each unique observation.
Computer documents
Keeping digital records on your computer allows for searching, editing and backing up files easily. Microsoft Excel or Word documents, plain text files or database software are options for digital logs.
Online apps
Apps like eBird allow you to log sightings from your smartphone or other devices. They provide user profiles, data analysis, and integration with online databases used by scientists and birders.
Field notebook tips
To get the most out of a paper notebook, follow these tips:
- Write neatly so notes are legible
- Use pencil which withstands weather better than pens
- Create shorthand abbreviations for frequently used details like species, locations, behaviors, etc
- Start each new day on a new page
- Leave room between entries for additional notes
- Write on only one side of the page so ink doesn’t bleed through
- Tape or glue in feathers or photographs
What details should you include when describing a bird sighting?
Recording specific details about each bird encounter will help ensure your records are useful. Include as many of the following as possible:
- Species – Note the common name and scientific name if you know them.
- Number – How many individuals of the species did you see? Also note ages and sexes if you can determine them.
- Location – Detail the specific place and habitat where the sighting occurred. Provide GPS coordinates if available.
- Date and time – The date and time of day or interval of the sighting.
- Behavior – What was the bird doing? Examples: foraging, preening, nesting, singing, etc.
- Plumage – Note distinctive markings, colors, molt status or other feather features.
- Field marks – Describe key characteristics that helped you distinguish the species.
- Vocalizations – Did you hear the bird? Describe diagnostic calls or songs.
- Distance – Your distance from the bird when observing it.
- Duration – How long did you watch the bird(s)?
- Weather – Note precipitation, cloud cover, temperature, wind conditions.
- Photographs – Note if you took photos and attach or save them if digital.
- Observer details – Your name/initials and any other birders present.
Organizing and indexing your entries
With paper logs, organization is key for easily finding records later. Here are some tips:
- Maintain an alphabetical index of species seen.
- Number and date all pages sequentially.
- Note location names frequently matched to map grid coordinates.
- Create a daily and annual chronological index to search by date.
- Maintain alphabetical indexes of locations visited and trip names.
For digital records, effective filenames, folders, tagging, and search functions help you locate details efficiently.
Analyzing and learning from your bird log
Reviewing past entries in your bird log can reveal patterns and trends that inform future birding. You can tally species counts, analyze seasonal changes, compare locations, note shifts from year to year, and quantify other observations.
Here are some questions to consider when assessing your records:
- How has your total species count changed over time?
- Which locations offer the most diversity and abundances?
- When do migratory species arrive and depart from your area?
- How do your local communities and habitats change over the seasons?
- Are there trends in nesting dates, clutch sizes or nest productivity?
- Do any populations appear to be declining or increasing over time?
- How are weather patterns reflected by migration timing and breeding activity?
Looking at your data can reveal patterns you may not notice day-to-day. Reviewing past trips to specific sites can help you decide best times to revisit them. Understanding seasonal changes and population fluctuations in your area makes you a more informed birder over time.
Using technology for logging and data analysis
Modern technology offers useful tools for recording bird sightings and harnessing the data:
- Smartphone apps – Apps like eBird allow on-the-go data entry, photos, and integration with online databases.
- Digiscoping – Using a camera mounted scope to more easily photograph birds.
- Voice recorders – Speak notes in the field for later transcription.
- Mapping tools – Link observations to GPS for visualization and data analysis.
- Online data queries – Filter records by date, location, species, etc using digital interfaces.
- Statistics software – Generate charts, graphs and trends from digital data sets.
- Bird language analysis – Study bird vocalizations using spectrograms and audio libraries.
Technology allows birders to record more robust data sets and extract greater insights from sighting records using powerful computational tools.
Storing and organizing paper field notebooks
For paper logs, proper storage and organization will keep them in good condition and allow you to easily reference past entries. Some tips:
- Ideally store notebooks flat on a shelf if possible, vertically otherwise.
- If pages are loose, hole punch them and keep in a binder.
- Keep pages clean by avoiding spills and dirt.
- Consider scanning or photocopying pages before extensive use in the field.
- Never tear out the original pages.
- Use archival safe pens and glues if attaching photos.
- Place small silica gel packs in storage boxes to absorb moisture.
- When not in use, wrap notebooks and store in acid-free boxes.
Proper care preserves your notebooks for decades. Future birders may appreciate their historical records!
Digitizing paper field notes
If you record sightings on paper, consider digitizing your original observation logs. Reasons to digitize records include:
- Preserves aging paper records.
- Allows backups so originals can be safely stored.
- Makes notes searchable and quantifiable.
- Enables analysis tools for observations.
- Data can be integrated online with other records.
- Useful for extracting parts into new documents.
- Share copies with other birders without risk to original.
Scanning or transcribing handwritten entries takes time but makes your data more accessible and useful for years to come.
Sharing your bird sightings with online communities
Sharing your sightings online contributes to scientific study while connecting with fellow birding enthusiasts worldwide. Some popular options:
eBird
One of the most popular birding apps, eBird maintains public databases of sightings that scientists use to study distributions, movements, trends, and more. Birders may enjoy checking hotspots and recent observations.
iNaturalist
This online social network connects naturalists who share biodiversity observations and discuss nature. You can upload photos and identify species with the community.
Birding forums and listservs
Active online birding communities exist through listserv emails, forums, Facebook groups and other platforms. Join groups related to your local area or specific species interests.
Your local Audubon chapter
Nearby Audubon chapters often collect local sightings data for conservation purposes and may publish newsletters or maintain forums for members.
Before sharing locations of sensitive species, consider potential impacts. But reporting common species contributes to broader scientific knowledge.
Choosing bird guide apps and technology
Today’s birders have an array of smartphone apps and gadgets that enrich the birding experience. Considerations when choosing tools:
- Recording and ID help – Apps like eBird, iNaturalist and Merlin offer logging options with identification assistance.
- Audio recognition – Identify birds by song through apps like ChirpOMatic, Song Sleuth and others.
- Photography – Choose digiscoping adapters and camera lens attachments to capture bird images.
- Maps – Apps like BirdsEye show hotspots, migration patterns, bird distributions and embeddable maps.
- Social features – Some apps allow connecting with the birding community to share findings.
- Portability – The handiness and weight of field equipment for mobility.
- Accessibility – Paid or free apps, availability for your devices.
The best birding tools match your experience level, budget, and needs in the field. Assess options carefully to select the most useful gear.
Choosing a bird guidebook
Field guide books assist birders in identifying species they encounter. Consider the following when selecting a guide:
- Geographic coverage – Guides are region-specific, so choose one for your area.
- Level of detail – Guides vary from simplified to highly detailed images and text.
- Organization – Species ordered taxonomically or by color and other groupings.
- Images – Photos, paintings or drawings showing key field marks.
- Range maps – Maps indicate species’ geographic distributions.
- Plumage details – Descriptions of variable male, female, juvenile and morph plumages.
- Vocalizations – Icons, descriptions or audio files for songs and calls.
- Ease of use – Layout and size make the guide practical in the field.
- Portability – Weight and dimensions for carrying along.
- Durability – Sturdy covers and binding to withstand frequent use.
- Personal preference – Match individual skill level and learning style.
Speak to fellow birders or read online reviews to choose the perfect field guide for your needs and budget.
Submitting records to online databases
Sharing observations through public data repositories advances avian research and conservation. Follow these steps when submitting records:
- Select a reputable database like eBird or regional biodiversity sites. Understand their data use policies.
- Create a free user account and profile on the site.
- Enter details using their data submission forms or import using file types like CSV spreadsheets.
- Provide complete information like species, location, date, time, numbers, breeding status, etc.
- Upload photographs if possible for documentation and review.
- For rare or difficult species, note diagnostic details confirming identification.
- Return to amend records if your identification changes later.
- Aim for consistent, high quality data that enhances the broader resource.
Double check unusual sightings and leave uncertain entries as unidentified. Shared data serves an important role in ornithology so emphasize accuracy.
Choosing a birdwatching spotting scope
Spotting scopes are vital tools for studying birds from afar. Consider the following features when selecting a scope:
- Magnification – Common ranges are 15-45x or 20-60x. Higher zoom better for distant birds.
- Objective lens size – Larger diameter lenses collect more light. 60-85mm is ideal.
- Optical quality – Quality prisms and lens coatings provide brighter, clearer images.
- Eye relief – Long eye relief accommodates eyeglasses and is more comfortable.
- Close focus – Useful minimum focus distances are under 20 feet.
- Body type – Angled or straight through choices based on preference.
- Mount type – Choose pan head or altazimuth mounts with smooth movement.
- Weight – Scopes under 5 pounds are easier to transport into the field.
- Waterproofing – Fogproof and waterproof models withstand outdoor conditions.
- Tripod – A sturdy tripod is needed to mount the scope stably.
With so many options, field-test scopes if possible and read reviews to find the best match for your needs and budget.
Additional gear for birdwatching
Beyond your binoculars and spotting scope, useful gear to carry:
- Field guide – Identify species encountered based on region.
- Notebook and pencil – Record sighting details for future reference.
- Camera – Photograph birds to enhance ID skills and memory.
- Digiscoping adapter – Attach camera to spotting scope for bird photos.
- Rangefinder – Determines distance to subjects.
- GPS unit – Records locations visited to map sightings.
- Radio handset – Receives forecasts and connects with other birders.
- Snacks and water – Sustains energy during long days afield.
- Hat and sunscreen – Protects from harmful UV rays.
- Insect repellent – Keeps annoying bugs away.
Prepare adequately for full days of birding with supplies to aid your observation, note-taking, photography and comfort.
Choosing binoculars for birdwatching
A good pair of binoculars is a birder’s most essential tool. Consider these factors when choosing binoculars:
- Magnification – 7x to 10x is preferred for adequate zoom on birds.
- Objective lens size – Larger than 36mm for bright images in dim light.
- Field of view – Wider fields make finding and tracking birds easier.
- Eye relief – Over 15mm is comfortable for eyeglass wearers.
- Exit pupil – The higher the number, the brighter the image.
- Close focus – Under 6 feet is ideal for viewing nearby birds.
- Ergonomics – Try different sizes and focusing to find the right fit.
- Durability – Rugged and waterproof for demanding outdoor use.
- Image quality – Sharpness, color rendition and low aberrations.
- Price – Sets expectations for performance and quality.
With so many options, test binoculars in the field and read reviews to find the perfect pair.
How to find and attract birds
Finding productive birding spots and attracting birds takes some knowledge and technique. Useful tips include:
- Learn bird vocalizations to detect species by ear.
- Focus on prime feeding spots like berry bushes, seed sources and nectar plants.
- Check bodies of water like lakes, wetlands and beaches for waterfowl and shorebirds.
- Look high in the canopy for elusive species moving through the trees.
- Sit and observe quietly in one spot so birds become active around you.
- Arrive early morning when birds are most active singing and foraging.
- Use recorded calls sparingly to draw curious species into view.
- Provide food sources like seeds, nectar plants and fruiting shrubs.
- Offer clean water sources like ponds, fountains and bird baths.
- Wait patiently in likely habitats and let the birds come to you.
With some field experience, you will learn optimal spots and techniques for your local area.
Ethics of birdwatching
Birders should follow ethical practices that prioritize bird welfare:
- Use proper birding etiquette in groups so everyone can enjoy viewing.
- Stay on trails and avoid disturbing vegetation to minimize impact.
- Keep voices low and movements slow and steady around birds.
- Never chase or flush birds trying to approach too closely.
- Ensure feeders, bird baths and nest boxes are kept clean.
- Avoid frequent nest visits that distress parent birds.
- Always put birds’ well-being and conservation first for the future.
- Pick up trash left behind at birding sites.
- Share the wonder of birds to inspire new birders to join the community!
Prioritizing ethical birding practices ensures healthy bird populations thrive for generations to come.
Importance of taking field notes
Thorough field notes are crucial for documenting bird encounters. Benefits include:
- Notes jog your memory with details you’ll forget over time.
- Creates a thorough record of species observed over time.
- Allows analysis of trends in populations, behavior and more.
- Future birders may appreciate the historical record.
- If submitted to databases, contributes to scientific study.
- Tracks your development as a birder over the seasons.
- Helps accurately identify species later when uncertain in the field.
- Adds richness and context to photographs of sightings.
- Logs details unimportant now that may prove significant later.
Field notes convert fleeting sightings into permanent records that enrich your experiences, learning and contribution to ornithology.
Conclusion
Keeping a detailed log of bird sightings can be a rewarding part of the birdwatching experience. Whether recorded in a paper notebook or digital app, a bird log preserves your encounters with different species to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of birds over seasons of birding. Put thought into what formats and details suit your needs and interests best. Most importantly, let your bird log help deepen your connection to bird life and conservation efforts as you build lifelong memories of seeing amazing birds in the wild.