Birding is commonly thought of as an eccentric hobby among outdoor enthusiasts. However, it is quite accessible to regular people like me who just want to watch majestic birds in their backyard. All you really need is a birdhouse, some seed and some patience. If you place your birdhouse in the right spot, the bird will eventually notice it and come by frequently to fill up. You’ll mostly see common birds such as crows and pigeons, but may see the occasional cardinal or bluebird. Bird species vary by geographic location and have different feeding habits. As you become more adept at noticing bird routines and behavior, you will develop a knack for spotting them at the right time of day.

Birds are nesting creatures and love to find warm, tight spaces to rest and brood. When choosing a birdhouse or feeder, you want to decide on what type of birds you want to attract. With a feeder, you will get to watch hundreds of birds come and go as they eat seeds. Feeders are generally open platforms or boxes that offer the bird a temporary perch to sit. Birdhouses can also offer food to eat, but are designed for birds to take a permanent residence within.

As a birdhouse owner, you will get to see a mother bird build a nest inside. When the time comes, she will lay eggs. Baby birds will eventually emerge and you will get to witness the miracle of life as they grow up. However, once a bird takes residence, other birds will not approach. You will have to decide if a feeder or birdhouse is best for your tastes. It is also possible to have both in the same backyard, just be sure to place only one unit per tree to give the birds space.

Document your sightings by date and time on a notepad. You will begin to see patterns which can help you to predict when the birds will arrive. Most birds will arrive early morning to get their fill. I advise keeping a digital camera near your back door at all times. Taking pictures of birds is a somewhat spontaneous event that requires some patience. You’ll notice that the same birds will return to your feeder. Children love to give the birds names and watch them day-to-day. Birding is an exhilarating experience that both children and adults can thoroughly enjoy. With a small investment in money and time, you will be an expert bird watcher in just a few short weeks.