Birdwatching for beginner

[foxy mars]

I got a new pair of binoculars last year and never been used yet. However in the New Year, I hope to get out birdwatching, having plenty of free-time in the morning/afternoon before I start my twilight shift.

Is there any tips regarding what gear to wear, food and drink, how long do I need to bird-watching. I'm a total beginner and hopefully one day, get a scope. The birdwatching area will be mainly down by the Marshs near the Tees Barrage and hopefully do a birdwatching holiday.

[MagpieMick]

This time of year make sure you keep yourself warm, small bottle of water...( hip flask) optional !!!!) snack, fieldguide ........

Most important enjoy being out ..

[nightshade]

Lucky you, keep your extremeties warm head/neck, hands, feet (a couple of those charcoal hand warmers in your boots) hot drink and chocolate

[sunnydale]

Hi Martin

Don't wear anything too bright....like your Hi Viz cycling vest for example!
Keep the colours darkish and muted.
You don't want to be scaring all the little birdies away now do you?!

Have fun, hope it goes well

[ron1863]

Warm dull coloured clothing, food and drink and try not to move about too much.

Good luck.

[Tursiops2]

Welcome to the wonderful world of birding, foxy mars! - beware, it's a slippery slope

If you're going to be down on coastal marshes this winter, you're going to get very cold if you don't dress sensibly (I speak from experience) A base layer of thermal underwear, including long-johns, is essential. On top of that: windproof trousers (not jeans, they hold water), as many layers over your torso as you're comfortable with, and a wind- and waterproof outer shell layer. Good waterproof walking boots, hat, gloves, scarf, and thick socks.

Are you on a tight budget? If you are, Primark do cheap thermals, and you can often pick up good-quality fleeces in Charity Shops. Army Surplus stores are good too - I wear a pair of leather "Para" boots for winter birding, I got them for £12 in Weymouth about 10 years ago, and they're one of the best buys I ever made.

Invest in the best quality outer layer you can afford. Look after it and it will last for years.

Hope this helps
T2

[leifus]

this isn't essential but...
I downloaded birdsong onto my mp4 player so I can identify calls in the field.

especially for all those tricky warblers

[foxy mars]

Thanks for the great ideas and tips, I will take a note of them all. I've got a RSPB Pocket Birds guide, to start me off.

Yes, thermal's seems to be the normal gear for bird-watching. Good idea about dark and muted clothing, trouble is all my jackets are bright. May have a look in the Army Surplus Store next week.

Hip-flask sounds good with whiskey, probably have a flask with hot tea and just add that to it.

Anyway, I will have pop down to the Tees Barrage this morning and see how many birds I can see.

Here's hoping.

[Hobjob]

Look up your local RSPB sites - all the bigger ones do
walks for beginners and not quite beginners - an excellent
way to get off to a flying start.

Don't be afraid to ask other birders especially in hides. Even
the experts were beginners once.

[foxy mars]

Nearest RSPB site is Blacktoft Sands, too far away. Then there is always Seal Sands.