Community & Current Events
Birding for beginners
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Community & Current Events
Birding for beginners
A wildlife expert shares three tips to help beginner birders get started.
Canada's 44 national parks provide habitats for many wild animals. Éric Le Bel, superintendent of Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site of Canada, spends his time observing the creature he loves most: birds. "When I hear a bird singing and don't remember what it is, I become really excited," he says.
An avid bird-watcher (or "birder"), Le Bel has taken many stunning photographs of the different species he's seen in Canada's national parks. "My hands were shaking, and I was sure that I missed my chance," says Le Bel, speaking about how thrilled he was to capture a picture of a Northern Parula warbler, a species common to Kejimkujik, but one he hadn't seen much of in other locations.
Interested in experiencing your own sighting? Le Bel shares his most useful bird-watching tips.
Check your equipment
"Some people use a telescope or a zoom on a camera, but those don't replace the binoculars," says Le Bel, who recommends carrying a pair at all times. He also suggests investing in a bird-watching field guide to help keep track of the different types of birds. "The drawings better pinpoint the distinctive characteristics of each species," he says.
But make sure to pay attention while birding. Memorize what the bird looks like before you consult your guide, says Le Bel. "If you look into your field guide while the bird is still there, you may lose track of it and miss the detail needed to identify the species."
Over time, you'll become better able to recognize birds, even by their calls. Audio guides are available to help with those who have an interest on relying on their ears alone.
Focus on the location
You don't have to be overly familiar with your surrounding area, says Le Bel. "Birds are all around us in very diversified habitats. They are one of the biggest draws to help people connect with nature."
Kejimkujik National Park provides various habitats and trails for many bird species, making it an ideal place for birders. The Roger Brook Trail is one of Le Bel's personal favourites. "The meander boardwalk along the Mersey River goes through a beautiful red-maple floodplain and is rich with bird life, amphibians and turtles."
He has visited parks across the country, relishing in the beautiful places where he can peacefully enjoy his hobby. "Our national park system is a reservoir of life and biodiversity, so birding is popular and engaging all across the country," he explains.
Commune with nature
"Birding is so much more than finding a bird and checking it off the list; it's also the chance to get to know nature," says Le Bel, adding that taking pleasure in where you are and observing birds makes it easier to slow down and appreciate life's gifts. "Birds are an eternal source of enjoyment and learning. This is the way to make sure that the joy of watching birds will follow you, all your life."
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