Birding Basics

Written for newcomers and experienced watchers alike, this National Geographic title treats bird-watching as both a pastime and a science. Noah Strycker, a birding expert, blends hands-on guidance with deep knowledge, and the pages are full of illustrations and photographs that make it easy to browse.

Rather than working as a field guide to species, the book is a primer on good habits in the hobby. It covers what to notice by sight and sound, how to get the most from printed field guides and smartphone birding apps, which equipment is worth buying first, and how to connect with birders around the world. It also offers ideas for drawing birds to a backyard, learning to identify species, recognizing a bird by its song, and following migration.

Sidebars scattered throughout offer trivia, identification pointers, and simple projects for exploring birds wherever you are. The book suits anyone who enjoys birds, whether from a window at home or on a trail.