Birdwatching is a popular pastime enjoyed by many enthusiasts around the world. Whether it’s observing urban birds like crows or trekking through rugged landscapes in search of rare species, birding offers a diverse array of experiences. For those new to this hobby, the question often arises about the essential gear required for an enjoyable birdwatching experience.
To shed light on this topic, we spoke with several birding aficionados. Dr. Parvish Pandya, Vice-Principal and Associate Professor of Zoology at Bhavan’s College in Mumbai, emphasized that beginners should not prioritize sophisticated equipment beyond binoculars and a field guide. “The safety of both the observer and the birds is paramount,” he noted.
Afshan Husain, an active member of the East Delhi Birders group, echoed this sentiment. “In our group, two members have fallen victim to theft, losing their expensive cameras while birding in Greater Noida. It’s safer to always go out in pairs or groups,” she advised.
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Husain also mentioned her Nikon P900 camera, which features an impressive 83x zoom, allowing her to view birds more closely. She believes that such prosumer cameras are a great alternative for those unable or unwilling to carry heavy DSLR equipment. However, Dr. Pandya advises beginners to refrain from using cameras while birding.
With decades of birdwatching experience, Dr. Pandya stressed the importance of minimizing disturbance to wildlife. “I highly recommend starting without a camera. Focusing on obtaining the perfect shot detracts from truly observing the birds,” he cautioned. “It’s akin to returning from a vacation with an abundance of pictures but not any lasting memories.”
Dr. Pandya further suggested that new birdwatchers should dress appropriately to avoid detection by birds. “Avoid wearing bright colors, as they can alarm birds, especially red. Camouflage is crucial; opt for greens in forested areas and browns on rocky terrain,” he advised.
Both Husain and Dr. Pandya recommend wearing long sleeves and avoiding shorts while birding to protect against mosquito bites. They also emphasized the need for mosquito repellent and a backpack stocked with snacks and water, as birding often leads to remote locations.
Once the essentials are established, Husain recommends keeping a small notepad handy. “Documenting different species, their locations, and habitats is crucial,” she stated. Dr. Pandya agrees, noting that records can provide valuable insights over time. “I have logged observations since 1977, tracking species in areas like Kalina that have since seen significant declines,” he shared.
Recording birds’ calls on a smartphone can also aid identification, according to Dr. Pandya. Frequent discussions about the characteristics of observed species often ensue. “In our group, we frequently engage in debates about the birds we’ve encountered, which can even stump seasoned birders,” Husain mentioned.
For effective bird identification, Dr. Pandya underscores the necessity of referring to a field guide. Recommended texts for beginners include Richard Grimmett’s Birds of the Indian Subcontinent and Dr. Salim Ali’s Book of Indian Birds. “Understanding the classification of birds and recognizing distinctive features such as size and tail color is key to accurate identification,” Dr. Pandya explained.
Lastly, a good pair of binoculars is essential for any birdwatcher. Binoculars from brands like Vanguard are readily available online. According to Dr. Pandya, binocular specifications typically include two figures: the first denotes magnification, and the second, the size of the lens. He suggests starting with a budget-friendly pair priced around Rs. 1,500 while avoiding overly bulky and expensive options. For those interested, some street markets in Mumbai offer inexpensive counterfeit Bushnell binoculars at around Rs. 300, which can serve as a backup for novices.
