For some it is joy enough simply to see a bird and observe its actions. Others want to identify the bird, to know its life-style, to understand its behavior. In this work it is appreciated, and both points of view are encouraged.

More than any other type of wildlife, it is birds that hold man in their spell. They are active and attractive. They make beautiful music. They please us with their willingness to come to feeders, their preoccupation with nests, and nestlings, their miraculous, mysterious ability to fly.

Part of the fascination of birds lies in their diversity and ubiquitousness. Upwards to 650 species are regular breeders or frequent visitors north of the Mexican border. Birds nest on sandy beaches and rocky cliffs, in marshes and deserts, along city streets and country roadsides. Although their numbers vary from place to place (and from season to season), you can watch them just about anywhere. Especially rewarding are places where birds fly or perch out in the open -- near a feeder or woodland pool, for example.

To maximize your opportunities to observe birds, keep in mind their flighty nature. Walk slowly and steadily, or not at all. Birds are less skittish if you stay in the car. Keep quiet. Don't wear bright clothing. And do get out early in the day, especially if you're looking for land birds in spring; they are noisier and most active from dawn to midmorning.

Happy birding!