A Kid’s Guide to Birding at the Arboretum
Hey there, young nature enthusiasts! If you’re ready for a feathered adventure, there’s no better place to start than Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Birding, the hobby of watching and identifying birds, is a fantastic way to connect with nature.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to embark on your own birding expedition at the Arboretum. Let’s discover the incredible world of birds where you live!
GEAR UP FOR YOUR BIRDING ADVENTURE
Binoculars
To get a closer look at our avian friends, you’ll need a pair of binoculars. Don’t worry; you don’t need anything fancy! A basic pair with 7×35 or 8×42 magnification is perfect for young birders.
Notebook and Pencil
Take notes of the birds you spot. Jot down their colors, sizes, and any unique features. This will be your birding journal! You can download and print this birding journal to use on your birding adventure.
Field Guide
Every bird watcher needs a good field guide. A field guide is a book that helps you identify birds based on their size, color, and markings. Look for guides specifically designed for beginners. There are a variety of birding field guides available for purchase in our gift shop, located at the entrance to the Arboretum. You can also download and use the Merlin ID app to help you identify birds.
ON YOUR BIRDING ADVENTURE
Observe from a Distance
Birds are easily startled, so it’s important to observe them from a distance. Find a quiet spot, be patient, and let the birds come to you. Use your handy binoculars to get a closer view!
Listen Closely
Birds communicate through songs and calls. Take a moment to close your eyes and listen for different bird sounds. You’ll be surprised at how many you can identify! Use the Merlin Bird ID app to record bird sounds live to help you ID the bird.
Identify Shapes and Colors
Pay attention to the shape and color of the birds. Different species have distinct markings. Use your field guide to match what you see with the pictures inside.
Location and Action
Take note of where the bird is and what it is doing. Is it flying in the air or hopping on the ground? Is it perched on the branch of a tree or pecking on the side of a cactus? Is it swimming in the water or sitting near the edge of a lake? Different birds hang out at different locations. This may be because they are looking for different resources or they are adapted to dwell in different areas. Identifying the location and actions of the bird will help you identify the bird itself!
Join a Bird Walk
As an Important Birding Area, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a great place to spot many different birds. Join a guided bird walk at the Arboretum on the second Saturday and Sunday of the month November-April. Loaner binoculars are available for use!
AFTER YOUR BIRDING ADVENTURE
Share Your Discoveries
Tell your friends and family about the exciting birds you saw! You can even create a presentation or share your drawings from your birding journal.
Continue Learning
The world of birds is vast and diverse. Keep learning about different species, their habitats, and migration patterns. The more you know, the more exciting your birding adventures will become. Below are a few resources for learning about birds in our area:
- Birds that visit the Arboretum in the winter
- Nocturnal birds in the Sonoran Desert
- Birding hotspots in Arizona
- Arizona’s state bird–the Cactus Wren
Embark on a birding adventure at the Arboretum. Appreciate the beauty of nature and learn more about the incredible birds that call your area home. Grab your binoculars, field guide, and notebook – it’s time to spread your wings and explore the feathered wonders around you! Happy birding!
Download and print this Birding Journal to bring with you on your birding adventure!
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