The Basics of Birding

Getting Into Birding Birding is an awesome activity that can be done by anyone anywhere! If you are wanting to get into birding, get outside! Birding can be done on a hike, in your own backyard, or from the comfort of your living room watching through a window.

Guides Anyone can watch birds, but half of the fun is identifying and learning to recognize them. Finding an online or print guide or book is a good start. In the shop, GBHO sells a Birds of Kansas guide for an easy start.

Another great resource is the Merlin Bird ID app. It works like shazam for bird calls. Using the app, you can identify birds based on their calls and photos.

Binoculars If you enjoy birding, you may want to invest in a pair of binoculars. Look for a pair with a lifetime warranty that is the perfect fit for you. We sell NOCS binoculars which are of incredible quality for a reasonable price point.

Tips A couple tips for you to consider –

1. Connect with local Birders. Join facebook groups and soak in all the information that you can. Use these groups to learn new things, make new friends, and ask lots of questions.

2. Become a morning person. Birds sleep at night and are hungry in the morning, so they go out and eat. We all know the “Early bird gets the worm” saying, and its true. Many birders are heading out at dawn to see the action. Avoid noon, it is when birds are least active.

5 Birding Hotspots near Lawrence

1. Marias Des Cygnes Wildlife Area

2. Shawnee Mission Park

3. Baker Wetlands

4. Clinton Lake

5. Perry Lake