Tips to identify that bird

When it comes to birding the identifications of the various different bird species can be trying, especially if you are a beginner to this hobby. Therefore to assist yourself in the identification of a specific bird it is useful that you are aware of the aspects that can assist you to identify it. Birding has become a popular past time and as such there is now ample information that will be able to assist you in identifying the various species. There is also numerous field guides that are comprehensive with regards to the birds found within a specific area. When it comes to birding it is essential that you remain quite and that you do not make any sudden movements as this would scare off a bird.

What to look for when identifying a bird?

There are several aspects within the structure of birds that can assist you when attempting to identify a specific bird species. When trying to identify birds it is important that you take careful notice of the silhouette of the birds, the plumage and the coloration, the behaviour, the song or call as well as the habitat of the various birds. It is important that you study the particular bird extensively before consulting your field guide this will prevent that the particular species flies away before you have a chance to properly study and identify it.

The silhouette of birds refers to the shape and size of the various bird species as each bird family has a specific shape and size. Therefore it is important that you notice the shape of the birds that you identify as you are then able to group them into families which narrows down the search considerably. There are some birds that can be identified from their silhouette alone, however the main aim is to simply narrow down the search. The plumage of a bird refers to the feathers and the coloration thereof. The various aspects that differentiate one bird from another are called field marks and this often refers to breast spots, thin lines along the wings, eye rings or brows as well as eye lines to name but a few.

Depending on what a bird eats will determine what the shape of the beak is. Birds such as finches and sparrows have short beaks that are cone shaped (conical), a woodpecker for example has a more powerful beak that is able to chip into wood. Birds of prey such as eagles and hawks as well as scavengers such as vultures have hooked beaks that enable them to tear the meat. The more time you spend bird watching the easier it will become to identify the various species that are found in the different areas. A comprehensive field guide, quality binoculars as well as plenty of patience is essential for successful birding.

An ideal bird watching location

If you are looking for a location that will present successful bird watching location then there is no better location than Thaba Phuti. Thaba Phuti game lodge is located just south of the Magaliesburg Mountain range and is a conservation area for the protection of birds, plants and animals. Here you will be able to experience the joys of birding in a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere.