Birding is a great way to get out in nature, connect with your community, and learn more about your local environment. Birding or birdwatching at its most basic definition, is the observation of wild birds as a recreational or academic activity. However, birding can provide a vastly different experience for each person.
For some, birding is a way to mindfully connect with nature, the land, and the creatures we share it with. It can be as simple as hiking in your favourite local park or travelling out of your way to visit that special spot on your bucket list. Whatever the case, with diligent eyes and ears, and an awareness of what’s around you, nearly any outdoor adventure can become a birding expedition.
Birding is what you make of it. Some folks enjoy birding as a relaxing, meditative activity. These birders are happy to be in the moment and welcome whatever birds happen to make an appearance. For others, birding can be a playful competition (with oneself or with others). It can be exciting and thrilling to look for new bird species every time you go out and to compare your findings with your fellow birders. One of these friendly competitions is the ‘Big Year’ challenge, in which a birder tries to spot as many different species of birds as possible within a calendar year.
Some birding enthusiasts are purely in it for observation. Maybe they are inspired to go birding out of scientific curiosity, or they’re an artist or photographer whose work features birds. If you want to discover some great bird photographers in BC, check out our Instagram where we share tons of photos from local birders!
The act of birding doesn’t have to be complicated—well, only if you want it to be! You may think you need a pair of high-end binoculars or a fancy camera to bird the “right way”, but in reality, all you need are your eyes and ears. The pure act of mindfully noticing and watching birds is birding—whether it’s in your backyard, your local park, or a remote location.
Although they’re not essential, birding equipment like binoculars or a camera can be helpful tools worth considering if you’re getting passionate about birding. You could also use a simple notebook and pen, a birding book, or an app on your phone like Merlin or eBird to help you identify and keep track of birds you see on your outings. And, be sure to download the BC Bird Trail app to keep track of all the birding hot spots you’ve visited! Or, if you want to just get out there in nature without keeping track of the birds you see, you do you! Customize your birding adventures to your liking.
Don’t know where to start? We’ve created birding itineraries all across BC. Visit our Trails page and find your community or one close by for excellent birding hot spots, as well as restaurants, accommodation and fun activity recommendations.
Remember, there’s something in birding for everyone, and birding is an all-ages activity. Keep your eyes and ears open for whatever birds are sharing adventures with you. And don’t be afraid to go at your own pace!
Find a Bird Trail near you
- Central Vancouver Island
- Columbia Valley
- Fraser Valley
- Sea to Sky
- South Fraser
- Vancouver Island North
