Where are good birding locations in or near London?
Q. I will be in London for several days on my way to Estonia in May. Where can I go that is in London or within a couple of hours by rail to look for birds and what are ones I should see.
Asked by muncie birder - Sun Mar 9 16:37:47 2008 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Firstly in the London area itself. I would recommend both Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park. The nearest Underground stations to Hampstead Heath are Golders Green,Hampstead or Highgate. Its a huge area of grassland and woodland containing all the more common breeds of British birds plus the raptors Kestrels and Sparrowhawks and many other vistors at migration time in Spring and Autumn. If you are going to Richmond Park catch an SWT train from Waterloo Station or the District Line of the Underground; the park is about 1 mile from Richmond Station - walk through the shopping centre and up Richmond Hill. Richmond Park is a national nature reserve and is huge with many very old trees and as well the birds you'll see on Hampstead Heath, it has… [cont.]
Answered by David S - Sun Mar 9 23:12:02 2008

Where can I go birding in Peru for marine birds?
Q. Hi - I am travelling to Peru and I would love to see marine birds in Peru - any suggestions?
Asked by David Lewis - Sat Mar 27 16:12:01 2010 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Yes, Paracas reserve is the best (penguins, piqueros, zarcillos, seagulls, etc) but near Lima there are some islands which you can also go to watch marine birds. These islands are Islas Palomino and there are daily tours. Paracas is 3 hours south of Lima so you need to probably stay overnight.
Answered by Love thy neighbour - Sun Mar 28 00:47:22 2010

How do you like your Canon EOS-1ds Mark II? Would you recommend it for birding and other wildlife imaging?
Q. I have a 5D but I am always getting caught in sandstorms, rains or snow it seems. I really need something sealed but I can't afford more than the ds Mark II. I go between Bryce and Lake Powell quite often in the summer.
Asked by Theo - Fri May 8 12:01:03 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. I've found the MKIII 1D's to be significantly improved in the AF department over the MKII's, now that the bugs are out of the system. I never found the outer points on the MKII to be particularly reliable, while the MKIII's outer points are all x-type and equally capable. You may also find advantages in the cleaner high-ISO abilities of the newer camera. That said, the DsII makes some of the most beautiful files I've ever seen... perhaps more organic than my 5DII even. For birding, I might think long and hard about a 1DIII over a 1DsII. I've owned both cameras.
Answered by Evan B - Fri May 8 15:34:57 2009

What does FOS mean in birding?
Q. I've checked several web sides for birding, but even though they use the acronym "FOS," they never spell it out. I found my answer to FOS on another site. It means first of season--the first time a birder has seen a particular bird. Thanks for your responses.
Asked by MW - Sat Nov 17 20:37:17 2007 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Florida Ornithological Society Persons interested in joining the Florida Ornithological Society may also send an e-mail to Peter G. Merritt with the information below or print this web page and complete the following membership application form to send by mail. In either case, please send a check for dues made out to FOS.
Answered by Pey - Sat Nov 17 20:45:17 2007

Birding And Bird Feeder Questions?
Q. Hello. And thank you for looking at my question. I have a question about my bird feeder. I got it a couple days ago and the first day I got it Bird Loved it. Now there are know birds there ever. Please help me with advice and such. Thanks.
Asked by shyorwhat - Wed Feb 13 17:50:35 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Hard to say without knowing what sort of feeder it is, or where you have it put up. If you put it up too near the house, it may keep birds away, but only for a while. Sometimes it takes a week or two for a number of birds to notice a new feeder, so be patient. They'll come.
Answered by Luna & Lawnboy - Wed Feb 13 17:58:22 2008

Any recommendations for birding trips to Central America (Costa Rica, Belize, etc) this spring?
Q. My wife and I are considering a trip to Central America this late-winter or early-spring to do some birding. Any recommendations? We are especially interested in tours that are environmentally conscience.
Asked by Scott - Wed Dec 23 18:43:30 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments

A. With more than 850 species of birds, all found within a tight geographic area, Costa Rica offers birders of all levels of expertise and unrivaled birdwatching experience during their stay in the country. From the oak forest of the Talamanca Mountains, Central America's highest mountain range, to the cloudforests of Monteverde or Braulio Carrillo National Park, to the lowland rain forest of the Osa Peninsula, birders will discover a rich variety of habitats filled with wonderfully diverse groups of birds.
Answered by www.ecoquintas.com - Wed Dec 23 19:44:25 2009

anyone know best birding spots in Los Angeles?
Q. If I was in LA for just two or three days what would the best sites to visit for spotting birds? I would be using public transport so they need to be accessible. Pretty much all the birds would be new, even the most common ones because I've not been to the Americas before, so all suggestions are welcome. Thanks.
Asked by Billy Fish - Mon Mar 26 04:55:25 2007 - - 5 Answers - 0 Comments

A. 'L.A" is a big place. Not sure exactly where you will be but I will name a few: Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Area Bolsa Chica Newport Back Bay Huntington Botanical Gardens (Arcadia, CA) Descanso Gardens Malibu Creek State Park Irvine Park Eaton Canyon It may be hard to get around on public transportation, we do not have a very good system here, you may be much better off with a cheap rental...it will save you a lot of wasted time standing at a bus stop!
Answered by birdgirl - Mon Mar 26 21:17:42 2007

Birding scopes--I need some suggestions on the best product.?
Q. Hey there, I'm hoping to get a bird scope sometime soon--but I need a a base to start with. Does anyone have any that they are using and would recommend to me? And I would also like suggestions on what kind I'm looking for.
Asked by Phoenix - Mon Oct 27 18:02:24 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. My rule for buying birding optics is to figure out how much you want to spend, then double it! I have two scopes. I would recommend either. The less expensive one is an Eagle Optics Raven. Its very reasonably priced and the optics are good. I also have a Swarovski HD 65mm Its small, light and incredibly good! My partner has a full size Swarovski HD and he prefers mine. Of course its 4 times the price of the Raven. I would also recommend you invest in a good tripod. It makes a big difference. Good luck! One more thing, Eagle Optics has a free buying guide for binoculars and scopes. You can order it at their web page.
Answered by in a handbasket - Mon Oct 27 19:59:46 2008

I need to replace my binoculars that were stolen. Can anyone recommend a moderately priced pair for birding.?
Q. easy to focus, light weight, moderate cost,which brand, what strength
Asked by bird lady - Mon Mar 24 10:39:58 2008 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Mine were recently stolen also. You have only really 2 choices for birding as far as power goes 8 power and 10 power. Personally, I have both and I like 8 pwer better because of the wider field of view. When you try to find a bird in a clutter of tree limbs and it is not in your field of view, it is very difficult to find. Also flying birds. A wide field of view gives you a better chance. What do you mean by moderate cost? Binos go all the way up to about $2000. Is $1000 moderate? $500? $200? A very decent pair is Nikon 8x40 ATB at about $120.00. They are just a tad on the heavy side though, but they have a very wide field of view. They are sold as water proof but I doubt that they are. But they are a good bargain. They… [cont.]
Answered by muncie birder - Thu Mar 27 22:32:04 2008

what are the Birding binoculars for less than $50?
Q. Hey there, I'm such an idiot. I'm on vacation for the next month and a half, and I forgot my binoculars--so I'm looking for some decent, modest-priced ones. Anyone have any ideas? Cheers! sorry, question should be "What are the best birding binoculars for less than $50?"
Asked by Falconer - Tue Jul 7 19:07:57 2009 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

Where can I find a hands on experience with wild birds like owls or hawks in Ohio?
Q. I am trying to find a unique gift for a friend. They love birding and I thought a hands on experience would be a really cool gift.Maybe something along the lines of a keeper of the day program or just a close up hands on experience. I am also willing to travel to Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, or lower Michigan. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and have great holiday.
Asked by TSAscreener - Mon Dec 8 14:01:08 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. You could talk with wildlife rehabbers in your area and see if they would need some help for a day or so. Many of them have many birds of prey. Where I work we have Hawks, owls, falcons, pigeons, starlings, and many other birds. Usually volunteers are welcome. If not there maybe call the zoo and see if they have any programs. Good luck.
Answered by Beth P - Mon Dec 8 18:52:02 2008

What bird species should i start out with?
Q. I really want to get a bird, parrot more specifically. Should I start out with smaller birds like parakeets to get into the swing of bird care, or should I go ahead and invest in a Green Cheeked Conure? I have read extensively on each species and I know people who owned an exotic bird so I have handled larger birds before, just not cared for one. please help!
Asked by Kate Unforseen at this present tim - Mon Mar 29 18:21:13 2010 - - 7 Answers - 0 Comments

A. If you think that you can handle it and have people that can help you, go for the conure. I would never suggest parakeet. They are hardly ever very friendly, and are VERY different than larger parrots. If you don't feel that you are ready for a conure, I would suggest a cockatiel. Their temperament isn't very similar to conures either, but they are more equivalent than parakeets.
Answered by Clumsical of the !MC! Squad - Mon Mar 29 18:34:01 2010

birding question: pipits and longspurs, Lake Tawakoni, TX?
Q. Does anyone know if Sprague's pipits and/or Smith's longspurs might be in the vicinity of Lake Tawakoni in late March (16th through 21st)? I realize they're not common there at any time of the year, but I don't know when they would migrate out of the area.
Asked by chris b - Sun Mar 9 12:45:00 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Lake Tawakoni Preview: The 36,700-acre Lake Tawakoni, one of the state s larger manmade reservoirs, is one of the two Sabine River Authority impoundments on the main stem of the Sabine River. The river begins in north-central Texas and eventually flows into the Gulf of Mexico near Orange. Iron Bridge Dam, including the spillway, is 5.5 miles long; access is available on weekdays from 8 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Lake Tawakoni State Park, located on the south shore off SH 2475, is in the development stage. Nearby Wills Point, advertised as the bluebird capital of America, sponsors an annual Bluebird Festival the second weekend of April. Key birds: Wood and Mottled Ducks, Crested Caracara, Greater Roadrunner, and Pileated Woodpecker are present… [cont.]
Answered by sparrow (Mediterranean Sparrow) - Sun Mar 9 12:49:42 2008

What bird is making a whipperwill sound at night?
Q. Evening dusk and all through the night I can hear a Whipperwill sing, I have never seen what this bird looks like and would like to know! I have had this bird in the woods surrrounding my home for almost 10 yrs and it am just curious about it! We do have mocking birds but I do not think it is this bird because of the distinked sound it makes "Whipperwill".
Asked by April M - Sat May 22 21:14:32 2010 - - 2 Answers - 1 Comments

A. Maybe its actually a whippoorwill. They tend to keep well hidden.
Answered by Leslie - Sat May 22 21:25:44 2010

I am planning to go to USA this June, can anyone advise where the best place to go birding during this period?
Q. I am planning to go to USA this June, can anyone advise where the best place to go birding during this period?
Asked by Miki - Tue Feb 27 21:17:50 2007 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. I would try someplace like Yellowstone or Yosemite national parks.
Answered by bebop_groove_bonanza - Tue Feb 27 21:26:37 2007

What species of bird is good for a pet for a family who has little experience?
Q. My husband are interested in adding a bird to our family and we were wondering what spieces would be good for someone who has little experience with birds. We would like a bird we can handle safely. Also what would be a good source for learning more about pet bird species?
Asked by Jamie - Mon May 26 19:11:37 2008 - - 10 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Finches are nice, low maintnance, easy to handle (if handled when first purchased) bird. I had one for a couple of years and then I had to give it away b/c we moved. A bugie is a little sweeter and easier to handle though still low maintanance. I would probably side with the bugie if you want a more friendly pet. Have fun!
Answered by ~*~I'mGoneRiding~*~ - Mon May 26 19:18:26 2008

What type of pet bird would be good for a beginner bird owner?
Q. I'm reserching pet birds. I've never owned one before. So , I don't know what type of bird would be a good starter bird. Any suggestions?
Asked by ashley_clark50 - Thu Jan 4 18:56:43 2007 - - 13 Answers - 0 Comments

A. it really depends on several things. How much are you expecting to pay, what's too much? Do you want the bird to talk (beware, even species known to talk will not always talk)? Do you have a lot of time? Do you want it to sing? Do you want to just look at it? Parakeets (budgies) and cockatiels are easy to keep, friendly, lower in cost range, and very popular. Kind of a gateway bird. If you are looking for something more exotic and have a lot of time, patience, and love, then small conures and caiques make adorable little clowns...but they are loud, notoriously nippy, and will not talk. Some smaller birds that require a bit more care but offer lots of love are parolttes and love birds, but do a lot of research! If you just want… [cont.]
Answered by lemonnpuff - Thu Jan 4 22:03:04 2007

How do you keep a hawk from killing birds at a birdfeeder?
Q. I feed wild birds throughout the winter for the fun of it and don't want to quit feeding them, but a hawk keeps killing them. I live in a semi-rural area in Southern Ohio and love my birds. The feeder is near my kitchen window (15ft) and the Hawk swoops in from field and scares the birds. Normally birds fly into the window and the hawk picks them up and carries them away. It has killed over 8 birds and it has left 2 birds to die on my deck. Please help me. -thanks
Asked by themanwodrums - Mon Jan 18 11:59:46 2010 - - 7 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Sounds like you need to move the feeder away from the window first of all. You can take it down entirely for a week or so until the hawk realizes there is no easy meals there and then replace it (away from the window) once the hawk leaves the area. Or keep it up, but move it to an area where there is some cover for the birds so they might hide if the hawk comes in. You last choice is to remove the feeder completely. I assume this is a Cooper's Hawk that is eating them..they are smaller hawks and are very maneuverable. Besides that, there is not much you can do to stop nature. Keep in mind you cannot harm, or harass the hawk in any way, they are protected by law.
Answered by birdgirl - Mon Jan 18 13:38:54 2010

What kind of bird is the best beginners bird?
Q. I know that this depends mostly on the persons ifestyle but I am curious to see people's answers. In my opinion a cockatiel or green cheek makes the best beginner bird. They aren't too expensive, and are small with a beak that isn't too intimidating. Both are known to be cuddly and lovable when hand fed and used to people. I already ahve 3 birds, so this isn't really for me I am just curious to see other people's opinions. I am not suprised by answers. I just posted here because on one site someone posted a goffin's cockatoo as a good beginners bird. I found this odd since most people see budgies, tiels, and small conures best. Thanks for the input!
Asked by conure_chick - Wed Jul 11 17:47:02 2007 - - 8 Answers - 0 Comments

A. quakers. We started with a quaker. Now we have three and a sunday conure. They are the perfect size, easy to train, and they have great personalities. They are also relativley inexpensive, if you get the green/grey quaker. In my life we've had Macaws, conures and quakers and the quakers have definatley been the most loveable, but also very strong-willed. Our conures, past and present, have been easy to handle and have been the clowns, they are extremely fun to have. The conure we have now, Pita, is very smart, and he makes us laugh everyday with his antics. We've had smaller birds in the past too, budgies and parrotlets. The budgies we never really formed strong bonds with like we have the bigger birds. The parrotlets were definatley cute… [cont.]
Answered by jen's3littlebirds - Thu Jul 12 11:23:42 2007

How to attracts bird to an apartment balcony with no trees around?
Q. I got a suet bird feeder and attached it to the railing of my balcony-no birds yet. Online it says to attach them to trees HOWEVER there are no trees around my balcony. How can I get the birds to come? I used an all year around no melt suet cake in the feeder.
Asked by sandywinters - Tue Dec 29 11:08:51 2009 - - 5 Answers - 0 Comments

A. woodpeckers are mainly the only ones that like suet,no trees no woodpeckers,,put oily sunflower seeds out and water,i use a heated dog dish for the h20,,may take awhile for the birds to find it,,dont waste your $ on bird seed mix,i have been feedind the birds for 30 years,they love oily sunflower seeds
Answered by gas man - Tue Dec 29 11:30:59 2009