How to Identify Wild Birds

Birdwatchers always strive to find and then properly identify as many species of wild birds as possible. To accomplish this goal, avid birdwatcher carry a pocket guide of some type that has pictures and facts about the birds in their region of the United States. Using such a guide--and taking careful notes about the birds' specific features--can help you identify wild birds.

Things You'll Need

  • Binoculars
  • Pocket guide to bird species
  • Notebook and pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the size of the bird. Gauge its size in comparison to commonly seen species of birds such as robins, finches or crows. Ascertain approximately how long the bird is, and note features that stand out, such as long legs or beaks.

    • 2

      Take note of the bird's shape. See if the bird has a thin and streamlined body or a more heavy build. Check to see if the wings are long and pointed or rounded and short. The shape of a bird's head often aids in its identification. Cardinals, waxwings and some jays have a crested head.

    • 3

      Observe the colors of the bird. This is possibly the most important factor in identifying wild birds, and requires detailed notes. Start at the very top of the bird's head and work your way down its body, looking for what colors are where and for any special markings that may be unique to certain types of birds. If you can observe the bird in flight, focus on its rump and the underside of its wings; birds such as the mockingbird, for example, have an unmistakable color pattern on the wings as they fly.

    • 4

      Listen to what the bird sounds like. Write down what the call or song of the bird sounds like to you, then check your pocket guide or online to try to match it up a certain species. Most online birding sites have recorded bird songs that can be extremely useful in identifying birds (see Resources).

    • 5

      Note where you spotted the bird. A wild bird's habitat can go a long way in helping to identify it. Write down whether the bird was seen near water, in a marsh, in an open field or deep in the woods. Also take note of what the bird is doing, with special attention to details about what it might be eating if you observe it doing so.