Eight tips for bird watchers

BinocularsThe only way you’re going to see those birds is through your binoculars. So it’s important you have a good set that offers a great view. Buy a more expensive one so that you can reap the benefits of vastly superior images, lifetime warranty, waterproof housing, and light weight.

A guideOnce you spot the bird, your next challenge is to identify which bird you have spotted and

understand its key characteristics. Is it migrating? Is it nesting? Salim Ali, India’s leading ornithologist, has the best guide and if you’re planning to invest in bird watching in a serious

way, it might be worthwhile to make the investment and buy his book!

Bird feedersIt’s important to lure the birds into your backyard so you can observe them at your leisure. But

how do you do that? Simple. You need to install bird feeders. Start with a black oil sunflower feeder. Add a suet feeder in winter and a hummingbird feeder in summer.

Spotting scopeThis much will equip you to be a pretty damn good bird watcher. But what happens when you

want to study the eagle at the top of that hill over there? Spotting scopes are what you need. They are expensive but indispensable when it comes to final clues in determining the bird’s name.

CameraYou will want to take pictures of some of your best bird sightings and post them on Facebook or

Instagram. A good semi-automatic camera will be useful to carry around. Even a cell phone camera will work if it is at least 12 mega pixels.

SkillsOnce you’re outside and surrounded by birds, we recommend practicing a four-step approach

to identification. First you judge the bird’s size and shape; then look for its main colour pattern; take note of its behaviour; and factor in what habitat it’s in.

Social connectionsThe theoretical or media image of a bird watcher typically features a loner. But to be honest, bird watching is more fun when you do it with other people. I like doing it with at least two other people, one of whom knows more than me and the other who is probably a beginner.

Then an excited conversation can be sparked off upon sighting a bird.

Wonder and surrenderBut more than all this, the most important qualities of a truly great bird watcher are wonder and surrender. You must not be careful with nature. You must be generous. You must allow

yourself to be carried away by her spell. You must see not just with the eyes in your face but also with the eyes in your mind and your heart. That is when the animal kingdom and nature

truly reveals its secrets to you.

And while in Coorg, don’t forget to explore Amanvana, the rabbit hole for the soul. With private bungalows on the banks of the Kaveri, a sunken spa, delicious Coorgi cuisine and a wealth of flora and fauna, it will be one of the most beautiful and soul-stirring experiences you ever have.