RSPB Rye Meads, family triathlon event, Draper hide

Guide to birdwatching

Birds can be seen almost anywhere, and you don't need binoculars or a telescope.

Find out more about how to get the most fun and enjoyment from birdwatching with our tips and suggestions.

The birdwatchers' code

RSPB Glaslyn Osprey Project. Osprey viewing site at Pont Croesor, near Porthmadog, Wales

Following the birdwatchers' code is good practice, common sense and should enable us all to enjoy seeing birds.

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What to look out for

Arctic tern in flight

Bird behaviour

Find out the answer to your bird behaviour questions here.
RSPB Giving Nature a Home Campaign

Choosing bird watching equipment

You don't need much to enjoy birds - just your eyes or ears. But there are lots of things which can make it easier.
Marsh tit perched on blossom

How to identify birds

You don't need to know anything about birds to enjoy watching them, but it's a natural to ask what kind it is.
Blue tit (l), Great tit (m) and Coal tit (r) | The RSPB

Tell tricky species apart

How to spot the difference between similar types of birds
Black grouse Tetrao tetrix, adult male on lek. Corrimony RSPB reserve. Scotland.

Watching endangered grouse

The black grouse and capercaillie are in serious trouble. Numbers in the UK are so low they're at risk of extinction.

Advice for disabled bird watchers

Ham Wall RSPB reserve, facilities for disabled visitors, powered wheelchairs and easy-access hide

These pages give some practical advice to disabled birdwatchers and tell you where to get more information.

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