 Re: Basic equipment?
I agree a good hand lens is essential for looking closely at plants + bugs, binoculars for birding (though I find them useful for looking at plants/insects at distance that aren't too accessible), a notebook + decent fieldguides. If you're into insects a basic net + beating tray would be useful for seeing many insects you'll otherwise miss.
Most important thing, which costs nothing, is bags of enthusiasm + an eye for detail. What youngsters lack in experience is often compensated by sharp eyes/ears.
If you're asking for youngsters Nick Baker has produced at least a couple of excellent books that would provide heaps of inspiration for anyone with an interest in the living world around them. |