Bird watching, which is frequently thought of as a solitary and peaceful activity, has the unexpected capacity to develop into a fun and interesting family pastime. Imagine the bonding that happens while patiently observing the natural world together, the shared excitement of identifying a new species, and the shared wonder of seeing a brightly colored cardinal. Making bird watching a family activity not only helps kids (and adults!) develop a love of the outdoors, but it also helps them make lifelong memories. The following five entertaining ideas will turn bird watching into an amazing family outing:
1. Transform Your Backyard into a Bird Buffet and Observation Hub
One of the easiest and most accessible ways to introduce your family to bird watching is by creating a welcoming environment for birds right in your own backyard. This hands-on approach allows for regular observation and fosters a sense of connection to the local avian visitors.
- Build and Hang Bird Feeders: Make it a family project to build simple bird feeders from recycled materials like milk cartons or pinecones coated in peanut butter and seeds. Research the types of seeds that attract different birds in your area (sunflower seeds are a great all-around choice). Hang the feeders in easily visible spots from windows or a patio.
- Provide a Water Source: Birds need water for drinking and bathing. A simple bird bath, even a shallow dish filled with water, can attract a surprising variety of species. Ensure the water is clean and refreshed regularly.
- Plant Native Plants: Native plants provide natural food sources like berries and seeds, as well as shelter for birds. Involve the kids in choosing and planting native flowers, shrubs, and trees.
- Create Observation Zones: Set up comfortable spots near windows or in the yard where the family can sit quietly and observe the birds visiting the feeders and water source. Encourage the use of binoculars (even toy ones for younger children) to get a closer look.
2. Turn Bird Identification into a Fun Family Game
Instead of making bird identification a dry lesson, transform it into an exciting game that encourages observation and teamwork.
- Create a Family Bird Bingo or Scavenger Hunt: Before heading out (or even just looking out the window), create bingo cards or a scavenger hunt list featuring common birds in your area. Include simple descriptions or pictures. The first person or team to spot a certain number of birds wins a small prize.
- “I Spy” with Birds: Play a bird-themed version of “I Spy.” “I spy with my little eye a bird that is red with a black mask.” This encourages careful observation of colors, markings, and behaviors.
- Become Sound Detectives: Learn common bird songs and calls together using online resources or apps. Go outside and try to identify birds by their sounds before you even see them. Mimicking the calls can be a fun and engaging activity.
- Use Kid-Friendly Field Guides and Apps: Choose field guides with clear pictures and simple descriptions that are easy for children to understand. Many excellent bird identification apps offer interactive features, photos, and even audio recordings of bird songs.
3. Embark on Mini Birding Expeditions to Local Hotspots
Change up the scenery and increase the variety of birds you might see by venturing out to local parks, nature preserves, or even nearby lakes or ponds.
- Plan Short, Engaging Outings: Keep the trips relatively short, especially for younger children, to maintain their interest. Focus on a specific location known for bird activity.
- Pack Kid-Friendly Supplies: Bring snacks, water, and comfortable backpacks. Consider bringing a small blanket to sit on for longer observation periods.
- Turn it into an Adventure: Frame the outing as an exciting expedition. Let the kids help choose the location and pack the “explorer gear” (binoculars, notebooks, magnifying glasses).
- Focus on Observing Behavior: Instead of just ticking off species, encourage observation of what the birds are doing – how they are feeding, interacting with each other, building nests, etc. This can be more engaging for children.
4. Combine Bird Watching with Other Outdoor Activities
Integrate bird watching into other family activities to make it a natural part of your outdoor adventures.
- Birding While Hiking: Keep an eye and ear out for birds while on family hikes. Pause at scenic overlooks or quiet spots to observe the surroundings.
- Picnic with the Birds: Choose a picnic spot in a park or nature area known for birdlife. While enjoying your meal, take time to observe the feathered visitors.
- Nature Journaling for the Whole Family: Encourage everyone to keep a nature journal where they can draw pictures of the birds they see, write down observations, and even press leaves or flowers.
- Bird Photography Fun: If anyone in the family enjoys photography, make it a fun challenge to try and capture pictures of the birds you spot.
5. Participate in Citizen Science and Community Events
Engage your family in broader bird watching initiatives that contribute to real scientific research and connect you with other bird enthusiasts.
- Join the Great Backyard Bird Count: This annual event encourages people of all ages to count birds in their own backyards or local areas for a set period, providing valuable data on bird populations.
- Contribute to eBird: Learn how to use the eBird platform to record your family’s bird sightings, contributing to a massive global database used by scientists and conservationists.
- Attend Local Birding Festivals or Walks: Check your local Audubon Society or nature centers for family-friendly bird watching events and guided walks. These offer opportunities to learn from experts and connect with other bird lovers.
By incorporating these fun and engaging approaches, you can transform bird watching from a potentially solitary hobby into a cherished family activity. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn together, and create lasting memories while appreciating the incredible avian world that surrounds us. So grab your binoculars, gather your family, and let the adventure take flight!