{"id":190871,"date":"2024-08-30T08:44:17","date_gmt":"2024-08-30T15:44:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=190871"},"modified":"2024-10-16T11:14:29","modified_gmt":"2024-10-16T18:14:29","slug":"the-perfect-kit-for-birding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/the-perfect-kit-for-birding","title":{"rendered":"The Perfect Kit for Birding"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The beauty of birding is its ability to wow you both in the backcountry and your very own backyard. Whether you spot a rare species, watch a migratory flock or observe a native bird in the throes of its daily routine, you\u2019ll instantly appreciate the awe and wonder of birding. This accessible and simple outdoor activity welcomes all ages and abilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re into the idea of birding but don\u2019t know where to start, we\u2019re here to help. First, read our guide to Beginner Bird-Watching<\/a>, then check off your bird-watching gear list with these birder favorites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo credit: Ashley Batz<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Nocs Provisions Standard Issue 8 x 25 Waterproof Binoculars<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Binoculars are generally the biggest investment for birders, equipment-wise: They’re not always necessary, but they can help bring nature into view. This pair of simple, stylish water- and fogproof \u201cbins\u201d from Nocs Provisions<\/a> are lightweight yet durable, with a rubber shell that keeps them protected from rough weather and accidental drops. They\u2019re simple to use, and you can even hold your phone up to the eyepiece to snap a picture. Want to carry less weight on the trail? The monocular Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8 x 32 Monocular Telescope<\/a> is great for outdoor minimalists. $95 ($75 for the Zoom Tube)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cotopaxi Allpa X 3 L Hip Pa<\/strong><\/a>ck<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This ain\u2019t your granny\u2019s fanny. Cotopaxi<\/a> designed this hip-looking hip pack to sit at your waist (or be worn crossbody) so your stuff stays within close reach. For shorter outings, this waist pack is perfect for holding snacks, a birding guide, extra bug repellent and your phone and wallet\u2014keeping your hands free to focus your lenses on warblers or water fowl. (Longer days of bird-watching might require more gear: Read How to Choose Daypacks<\/a> for more info.) $75<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo credit: James Harnois<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Adventure Publications Stan Tekiela’s Birding for Beginners: Midwest<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Spotting a new-to-you bird species can feel like hitting the lottery\u2014at least for true bird nerds.  Naturalist and wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela<\/a> writes U.S. regional field guides that cover all the birding basics. This one is perfect for me, a Chicagoan who loves backyard birding. Bird guidebooks can fill you in on all the information you need to blossom as a birder\u2014from feeders and food to species identification\u2014no matter where you live or travel. (Fun fact: When you see a new kind of bird, that\u2019s called a \u201clifer,\u201d since you only get one chance to see it for the first time.) $16.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo credit: Corina Skrobecki<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Merlin Bird ID Smartphone App<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

More of the tech-savvy type? Well, lucky you, because bird ID-ing just got a whole lot easier. The Merlin Bird ID<\/a> app, which was developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology<\/a>, uses sounds, photos and a questionnaire to help you identify the birds you see and hear. The app\u2019s Sound ID feature listens to live bird calls to make suggestions about what species are singing, and has a birdsong library for 1,054 species. Or, snap or share a photo from your camera roll to figure out what your feathered friend is from a list of possible matches. Free<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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REI Co-op Sahara Guide Hat<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sun in your eyes = unlikely bird sightings. The Sahara Guide Hat<\/a> from REI Co-op<\/a> is made with UPF 50+ nylon to shield your peepers from the sun and protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It\u2019s waterproof, breathable and adjustable, with a toggle cord to help it stay put. Birding in a warm climate is no problem: The hat\u2019s breathable mesh side panels help to keep your head cool too. $42.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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REI Co-op Active Pursuits Long-Sleeve Quarter-Zip Pullover<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Nothing dampens your spirit like a gnarly sunburn after an amazing day of bird-watching. OK, maybe getting pooped on by a bird is worse, but you get what I mean. The lightweight Active Pursuits Long-Sleeve Quarter-Zip Pullover<\/a> from REI Co-op<\/a> gives you full sun coverage with a buttery soft texture. Protective UPF 50+ fabric blocks UV rays, the bluesign\u00ae<\/a>-approved polyester\/spandex blend wicks away moisture and a quarter-zip front lets you vent heat quickly. Hook thumbs into discreet holes to keep sleeves secure and arms warm. Available in men\u2019s<\/a> and women\u2019s<\/a>. $49.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip Fleece Jacket<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even an outdoor adventure as chill as birding calls for proper preparation. That includes bringing an extra layer (or two) in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. This super soft and cozy Cotopaxi<\/a> fleece pullover is an ideal companion when it gets chilly on the trail. The Abrazo Half-Zip is made from 100% recycled polyester and has two handy pockets: a kangaroo pocket to keep hands warm and a zippered chest pocket to keep essentials close by. While some birders<\/a> say bright colors scare away birds, others say they attract them closer. Whichever you agree with, you won\u2019t regret snagging this fleece. Available in men’s<\/a> and women’s<\/a>. $120<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers – Men<\/strong><\/a>‘s<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Birders planning to head off the beaten path: These hiking pants are for you. Fjallraven<\/a> has a reputation for designing quality technical gear, and doesn\u2019t fall short with the Vidda Pro Ventilate<\/a>d Trousers<\/a>. These 4-season pants will keep you dry in wet conditions, cool in the heat and protected from the elements thanks to waxed polyester-cotton blend fabric with zippered ventilation pockets throughout. $180<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If birders had a uniform, the Moab 3 hiking shoes would be a firm requirement. These versatile, breathable and comfortable Merrell<\/a> hikers have a devoted following with hikers who put their shoes through the paces. One customer-reviewer says the Moab keeps getting better, especially for wider feet: \u201cSeriously the best wide hiking shoe\/boot out there. Feels great out of the box.\u201d The Moab 3 levels up with grippier Vibram\u00ae bottoms and a waterproof membrane that seals out water while letting moisture escape. Hiking on more dynamic, rocky or brushy trails? Consider the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe<\/a> ($150<\/em>), which provides more ankle support and protection from debris and abrasion. Available in men\u2019s<\/a> and women\u2019s<\/a>. $135<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo courtesy of Sawyer<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Worry about spotting birds, not scratching insect bites. This insect repellent from Sawyer<\/a> comes in lotion form, is convenient to carry and easy to apply. It\u2019s long-lasting, DEET-free, and repels chiggers and biting flies for up to 8 hours, and ticks and mosquitoes for up to 14 hours. Want to treat your clothes too? Use Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray<\/a> ($17.50<\/em>) on fabrics before you head out. $9.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo courtesy of Rite in the Rain<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

R<\/a><\/strong>ite in the Rain 3 x 5 Weatherproof Top Spiral Notebook<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Field notebooks are a popular piece of birding gear: They let you sketch species, draw maps, keep track of spottings and record data while you\u2019re in the field\u2014the sky\u2019s the limit. The small journal<\/a> from Rite in the Rain<\/a> is weatherproof, meaning your ink won\u2019t run if the pages get wet, and its small size fits right into a back pocket. It\u2019s perfect for shorter field reports and reflections. According to the bird conservation nonprofit National Audubon Society<\/a>, journaling can even make you a better birder<\/a>. Who knew? $4.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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REI Co-op Trail Stool<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Snag a seat while you search the sky: Sitting still in one place can help you notice more birds more quickly than if you were to try to spot them while you\u2019re mobile. The travel-friendly Trail Stool<\/a> from REI Co-op<\/a> clocks in at just 1 pound, 2 ounces and packs down small, with a shoulder strap for easy carrying. This tiny trail companion has rugged aluminum legs and can hold up to 200 pounds. While it\u2019s not a necessity, this inexpensive stool will feel like a luxury item during longer birding sessions. $24.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles<\/strong> – Pair<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

I love hiking with trekking poles for extra stability\u2014and scaring away bears I might run into on the trail (mostly kidding). Birders who want better balance and relief on their knees should check out the Trailmade Trekking Pole<\/a>s<\/a> from REI Co-op<\/a>. These lightweight, aluminum poles are adored by people with a wide range of heights and hand sizes thanks to their comfortable EVA foam grips and simple adjustability. $79.95<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo credit: James Harnois<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The beauty of birding is its ability to wow you both in the backcountry and your very own backyard. Whether you spot a rare species, watch a migratory flock or observe a native bird in the throes of its daily routine, you\u2019ll instantly appreciate the awe and wonder of birding. This accessible and simple outdoor activity […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30740,"featured_media":191236,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[387],"tags":[1978,724,1951],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-190871","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hike","tag-birding","tag-gear","tag-the-perfect-kit"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/hike\/the-perfect-kit-for-birding","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"The Perfect Kit for Birding","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/the-perfect-kit-for-birding","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/the-perfect-kit-for-birding"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/07\/Bleakney_071819_0063.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/07\/Bleakney_071819_0063.jpg?fit=2000%2C1333"},"articleSection":"Hike","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Ever Meister"}],"creator":["Ever Meister"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["birding","gear","the perfect kit"],"dateCreated":"2024-08-30T15:44:17Z","datePublished":"2024-08-30T15:44:17Z","dateModified":"2024-10-16T18:14:29Z"},"rendered":"