Identify birds more easily with the help of these items. (iStock)
Birdwatching is one of the easiest hobbies to pick up. You can get outside, explore nature and discover the birds around you without spending a fortune on gear. From binoculars and free birding apps to comfortable hiking gear, these essentials will help you spot more birds, identify new species and make the most of every outing.
Original price: $39.97
Start identifying birds by their appearance and location with a field guide. (Amazon)
Bird-watching apps can help, but every enthusiast should own a field guide. Clear photos help you identify species by appearance, and the compact size makes the guide easy to slip into a bag or jacket pocket. You’ll also learn how birds hide and how to locate them in the wild.
Grab a pair of binoculars that give you a clearer view of birds near and far. (Amazon )
Looking for a reliable pair of binoculars to see birds up close? You’ll discover a wide range of options, from these budget-friendly, travel-sized pairs to premium Nikon models that offer a wider field of view and more powerful magnification. Bushnell, another highly sought-after brand, also offers waterproof binoculars.
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Carry your binoculars hands-free with a chest harness. (Amazon )
During hikes, use a harness to keep your hands free while carrying your binoculars. It wraps around your shoulders and chest for an easier fit than a standard neck strap. You can also choose backpack harnesses with a pocket for storing your binoculars.
Original price: $189.99
Watch your feathered friends from the comfort of home. (Amazon)
This smart bird feeder has a built-in camera that connects to the Netvue app on your phone. When a bird lands, you can view it up close in real time. For one of the most high-tech options, go with a Birdfy feeder. Using AI, it identifies each visitor automatically, and its night mode lets you keep watching after dark.
Original price: $24.99
Novice birders will appreciate the simplicity of a classic feeder. (Amazon)
A classic bird feeder brings more visitors to your yard so you can watch them right from your window. Its thin design blends well with your outdoor decor, and six perches provide plenty of feeding space.
The front door opens for easy cleaning. (Amazon)
Give your winged backyard visitors a dedicated place to nest with this birdhouse. Grooves below the entrance help birds climb out more easily, while the elevated mesh floor improves air circulation. Shop now for less than $40.
Birdwatching experts will want to add a scope to their collection. (Amazon )
To get a closer look at birds, choose a spotting scope. It works like a compact telescope and includes a mount for your smartphone, letting you capture high-definition photos.
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Watch visitors through the built-in camera. (Amazon)
The Birdfy Bath Pro has an integrated smart camera that lets you catch a glimpse of neighborhood birds in crystal-clear detail. Its wide-angle lens and automated tracking capture videos and photos, then send them straight to your phone.
Easily identify bird calls through the Merlin app. (Apple Store)
The Merlin app identifies birds by their songs, so you can tell which ones are nearby while walking, hiking or hanging out in your backyard. Download it for free from the Apple Store.
Easily record all your bird sightings. (Amazon)
There’s more to birdwatching than simply observing. A field notebook lets you record every sighting. The Rite in the Rain field journal is waterproof and features space for drawings, along with sections to note the date, time and weather.
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Attract more wildlife to your property with a bird call. (Amazon)
When you’re out hiking, a bird call can attract more species to your area, so you can identify them more easily. The Audubon Store has official versions that are American-made and hand-tuned to mimic actual species. They also fit comfortably in your pocket.
Keep your bird bath water clean with a copper disk. (Amazon)
Copper disks like this one have natural antimicrobial properties that reduce buildup in bird baths. The disk slowly releases ions into the water, helping prevent algae so your bird bath stays cleaner longer. It’s also compatible with solar fountains and bubblers.
Original price: $19.99
Sweat less with this water-wicking shirt. (Amazon)
During birding walks, block out harmful UV rays with this shirt that offers UPF 50+ protection. The quick-drying fabric won’t hold onto sweat, so you stay cooler longer. A tag-free collar and hidden seams help prevent irritation and chafing.
Stay cool while birdwatching with a bucket hat. (Amazon)
Prevent sunburns with the help of a protective hat. It can be something as simple as a funny ball cap showing off your love of birds, or you can pick up a simple bucket hat for less than $10 on Amazon. The bucket hat comes in multiple camo patterns and a few neutral colors.
Original price: $15.99
This breathable, lightweight pack gives you plenty of storage space. (Amazon )
Birdwatching often involves hiking into the woods, so grab a small backpack to carry water, snacks and other essentials. This lightweight pack offers plenty of space and folds into a compact storage pouch when not in use.
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Enjoy all-day comfort in these waterproof hiking boots. (Amazon)
Snag a pair of Skechers boots for long walks and wooded trails to keep your feet comfortable. They have a waterproof suede upper and a memory foam-filled insole that cushions every step. Find a similar pair in women’s sizes and styles.
Future birders can get most of the items on the list in just 24 hours if you’re an Amazon Prime member. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.