Most of the time I bird alone. Not that I am
anti-social but due to my busy schedule, my field
trips are usually spontaneous and unplanned. Birding
alone does have one big benefit because birds are
keenly aware of the presence of strangers and there's
nothing more annoying than a big group of birders
disrupting their activities.
Rule number one is to be
quiet and not to bother the birds. Birds lead active
and somewhat very precarious life. Every new day
starts with activities that are vital for survival. Be
aware of the presence of the various bird species in
the immediate vicinity by tuning in to the different
birdcalls.
Bird songs may express joy but they also
communicate territorial claims and the attracting of
mates. Territory is about securing sufficient sources
for food, feeding, resting, mating, nesting and the
brooding of young.
By understanding what's going when you enter a given
area gives you the best chances of sighting the birds.
Getting good photo opportunities you have to observe
and appreciate the light conditions, space for the
scope to have good field of vision and getting into
nice hide position.
I prefer to sit quietly and wait
for whatever turns up at a fruiting tree or a
flowering shrub. In the heat of the day, a shallow
forest stream can be a good spot for the feathered
denizens to come out for a nice birdbath.
In a "bird
rich" area with lots of birdcalls, the slow patrolling
mode with quiet pauses can be very productive. Just
relax, just soak in all the birdcalls and become one
with the whole environment. Happy Birding.
