This article was excerpted from the Jan/Feb 2023 issue of REINVENT Magazine.
From their antics at the feeder to frolics in the forest, there’s just something about watching birds that brings me so much joy. Here are a few books and products that have made birdwatching more fun and accessible for me:
- The Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America by Matt Kracht. This unique and entertaining book is chock-full of gorgeous illustrations and actually useful birdwatching information, sandwiched between hilarious layers of satire.
- The Bird Way by Jennifer Ackerman. This aviary deep dive kept me entertained while developing a much better understanding of the sociology and psychology of bird communities.
- Woodlink Going Green Platform Bird Feeder. This simple platform-style bird feeder is now on its fourth winter. It’s easy to fill, easy to clean, and attracts a variety of species. There’s plenty of room on the platform to spread out, so it’s not an uncommon occurrence for me to get to watch a variety of birds like cardinals, bluejays, woodpeckers and chickadees, all feasting together. Purchase along with a clamp-style hook to mount on a deck railing.
- Merlin Bird ID. This free app uses both sounds and visuals to help you ID birds out in the wild…or out your kitchen window. I’ve used it to identify everything from a nest of baby osprey spotted on a kayaking trip to a red-bellied woodpecker sauntering up to my feeder.
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