There are various ways of watching birds. Some record their song, some take notes on where and when they saw this bird or that. Some use a camera, others a drawing pad. Some have life lists, year lists, backyard lists and frontyard lists, while others contend with keeping an eye on the bird feeder in the winter months. Far from all are experts, but every single one is a real enthusiast, and has his/her own way of identifying birds.
One way is to study their movements, on the ground as well as in flight. This is very useful if you’re too far away to see any characteristic markings, and comes quite naturally if you’re an attentive birder. Is it hopping or walking, skipping or rushing? Note the wing-beat. This observation can help you approximate the size and character of the bird. A very large bird is slow and heavy on its wings and a smaller one is more swift in flight.
Sounds. If you know a startled dove’s frantic flapping you don’t even have to turn around to know it’s there. And not just single sounds. Listen to the soundscape. It’s nature’s gossip.
