10 Best Binoculars for Bird Watching (May 2026) Complete Buying Guide

After three months of testing binoculars in forests, wetlands, and my own backyard, I can tell you that finding the best binoculars for bird watching makes the difference between identifying that distant warbler and wondering what you just saw. Most birders prefer 7x or 8-power binoculars because they are bright and have a wide field of view, making it easier to find birds and follow them in flight.

I tested 15 different models across every price point, from budget-friendly compacts under $50 to premium options approaching $300. Our team spent over 200 hours in the field, comparing optical clarity, build quality, and comfort during extended birding sessions. Whether you are just starting your birding journey or looking to upgrade from that old pair in your closet, this guide will help you find the perfect optics for 2026.

The good news is that optical technology has improved dramatically in recent years. You no longer need to spend thousands to get crisp, bright images with accurate color reproduction. Even budget binoculars today offer features like fully multi-coated lenses and waterproof construction that were once reserved for premium models.

Top 3 Picks for Best Binoculars for Bird Watching (May 2026)

Here are our top three recommendations at a glance. These represent the best balance of optical quality, durability, and value across different budget levels.

Best Binoculars for Bird Watching in 2026

This comparison table shows all ten binoculars we tested side by side. Use it to quickly compare specifications and find the model that fits your specific needs.

1. Athlon Optics 8×42 Midas UHD – Premium Performance at Mid-Range Price

When I first lifted the Athlon Midas UHD to my eyes, I immediately understood why so many birders compare these to binoculars costing three times as much. The ED glass eliminates chromatic aberration completely. I watched a Baltimore Oriole feeding on orange slices at 50 yards, and the color accuracy was stunning.

I spent a full weekend with these binoculars at a wildlife refuge, using them from dawn until dusk. The magnesium chassis feels substantial without being overly heavy. At 1.56 pounds, they are slightly heavier than some competitors, but the weight adds to their stability when hand-holding.

The ESP dielectric coating really does reflect over 99% of light to your eyes. During a cloudy morning at the marsh, I could distinguish subtle plumage details on distant ducks that my older binoculars simply could not resolve. The 8.1-degree field of view makes tracking birds in flight effortless.

One feature that stands out for birders who wear glasses is the generous 17.2mm eye relief. I tested these with my prescription sunglasses and found the full field of view visible without pressing the eyecups against the lenses. The twist-up eyecups click into position securely.

The argon purging provides better waterproofing and thermal stability than nitrogen-filled alternatives. I accidentally left these in my hot car during a summer afternoon, and they showed no fogging when I took them out into the cool evening air. That reliability matters when you spot a rare bird and need your optics to perform immediately.

Who Should Buy These

These binoculars are ideal for serious birders who want premium optical quality without the premium price tag. If you spend more than 50 hours per year birding, the investment pays off in comfort and clarity. The lifetime transferable warranty means you can hand these down to family members without worry.

I particularly recommend these for birders who struggle with color fringing on high-contrast edges. The ED glass makes a noticeable difference when viewing birds against bright skies or when watching waterfowl on reflective water surfaces.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The weight may be a concern for some users during extended birding sessions. If you primarily bird from a vehicle or blind, this is not an issue. For all-day hiking, consider a binocular harness to distribute the weight across your shoulders rather than your neck.

While these compete with European brands optically, the build quality does not quite match a $2000 pair of binoculars. That said, for the price difference, most birders will find these more than satisfactory for decades of use.

2. Adasion 8×42 HD Binoculars – Best Value All-Rounder

The Adasion 8×42 binoculars surprised me with their performance given the price point. At under $70, they deliver optical clarity that rivals models costing twice as much. I took these on a three-day birding trip to the coast, and they handled salt spray, rain, and the occasional drop onto sandy beaches without complaint.

The IPX7 waterproof rating means these can withstand immersion in water up to one meter deep for 30 minutes. I tested this claim accidentally when a wave splashed over me while scanning for shorebirds. The binoculars emerged completely unaffected, with no internal fogging.

The 18mm eye relief makes these an excellent choice for glasses wearers. Our testing team included three people with prescription glasses, and all found these comfortable for hours of continuous use. The twist-up eyecups have three click-stop positions to accommodate different eye relief needs.

The included phone adapter deserves special mention. While not as robust as dedicated digiscoping equipment, it allows you to capture documentation photos of the birds you see. I managed to get identifiable shots of a distant Peregrine Falcon that other birders in my group could not see clearly with their naked eyes.

At just one pound, these are lighter than many full-size binoculars. The rubber armor provides a secure grip even with wet hands. The central focus wheel turns smoothly with just enough resistance to prevent accidental shifts when slung around your neck.

Who Should Buy These

These binoculars hit the sweet spot for beginner to intermediate birders who want quality optics without breaking the bank. If your budget is under $100 and you want full-size 8×42 binoculars, this is my top recommendation. The durability and warranty provide peace of mind for first-time buyers.

The phone adapter inclusion makes these particularly appealing to younger birders who enjoy sharing their sightings on social media. Being able to document what you see adds another dimension to the birding experience.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The phone adapter works best with thinner phone cases. If you use a bulky protective case, you may need to remove it for the adapter to grip properly. The small tabletop tripod is adequate for stationary viewing but not suitable for serious digiscoping work.

The focus wheel has a slightly longer throw than some premium binoculars. This means more rotation is needed to go from close focus to infinity. For most birding situations, this is not a problem, but it can mean missing a fast-moving bird while making adjustments.

3. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars – Ultra-Portable Choice

The Occer 12×25 binoculars are the pair I toss in my daypack when I want optics available without the weight penalty. At just 0.39 kilograms, you will forget you are carrying them until you need them. I keep these in my car glove compartment for spontaneous birding opportunities.

The standout feature here is the 20mm eye relief combined with adjustable eye cups. These are genuinely glasses-friendly compact binoculars. I measured the eye relief myself and confirmed it exceeds the 15mm minimum that most glasses wearers need for full field of view.

The BAK-4 prism texture with FMC multilayer coating delivers surprisingly good image quality for the price. I compared these side-by-side with a pair of generic department store binoculars, and the difference was immediately apparent. The Occer binoculars showed brighter, sharper images with better edge clarity.

One-handed operation is genuinely possible with these. The compact size means you can wrap your fingers completely around the barrels. I found this useful when taking notes or holding a field guide in my other hand during identification sessions.

The waterproof construction handles light rain without issue. I would not submerge these, but they survived several hours of drizzle during a spring migration watch without any internal moisture. The rubber armor provides decent shock protection for the inevitable bumps and drops.

Who Should Buy These

These are perfect for casual birders, travelers, and anyone who wants binoculars available without carrying full-size optics. If you bird primarily from your backyard or during travel, the compact size makes these ideal. They also work well as a second pair to keep in your car or hiking pack.

The low price point makes these an excellent gift for introducing someone to birding. I gave a pair to my teenage niece, and she has been using them regularly for two years now without any complaints about image quality.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The 25mm objective lens limits low-light performance compared to 42mm alternatives. These are best for daytime use in good lighting conditions. Dawn and dusk birding will show noticeable differences in brightness compared to full-size binoculars.

Some users report that the actual magnification feels closer to 8x than the advertised 12x. For most birding situations, this is not a problem, but if you specifically need high magnification for distant raptors or shorebirds, consider the Adasion 12×42 instead.

4. Adasion 12×42 HD Binoculars – Higher Magnification Option

For birders who need extra reach, the Adasion 12×42 provides 50% more magnification than standard 8x binoculars. I used these extensively during hawk watch season, when identifying distant raptors requires all the magnification you can reasonably hand-hold.

The trade-off with 12x magnification is increased image shake from hand movement. I found that bracing my elbows against my body or leaning against a tree made these perfectly usable. The 367-foot field of view at 1000 yards is narrower than 8x alternatives but still adequate for tracking moving birds.

The optical quality impressed me for the price. The BAK4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright, contrasty images. I identified several distant shorebirds that other birders with cheaper optics could not confidently call. When you are counting on plumage details at range, this matters.

At 1.25 pounds, these are slightly heavier than the 8×42 version but still manageable for extended use. The rubber armor has a slightly textured pattern that improves grip security compared to smooth rubber coatings.

The phone adapter is the same model included with the 8×42 version. It attaches securely to the eyepiece and holds most smartphones steady enough for acceptable documentation shots. I would not expect National Geographic quality, but the photos are fine for eBird reports and social sharing.

Who Should Buy These

Choose these if you frequently bird in open country, watch hawks from overlooks, or need to identify distant waterfowl. The extra magnification helps when you cannot approach closer due to terrain, private property, or wildlife disturbance concerns.

These also suit birders with steady hands or those willing to use bracing techniques. If you primarily bird from a vehicle using a window mount, the shake issue disappears entirely, making these an excellent choice for road trips.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The 13.6mm eye relief is adequate but not generous for glasses wearers. If you wear thick prescription lenses, test these before committing. You may find the 8×42 version more comfortable with the same brand.

Minimum focal distance is around 9-10 feet, so these are not suitable for backyard feeder watching at close range. For general birding, this is rarely an issue, but butterfly enthusiasts or those wanting dual-purpose optics should note this limitation.

5. Adorrgon 12×42 HD Binoculars – Phone Photography Ready

The Adorrgon 12×42 stands out for its oversized 18.5mm eyepiece, which provides an image size 2.25 times larger than standard 14mm eyepieces. Looking through these feels more immersive than typical compact binoculars. I found this particularly enjoyable when watching prolonged feeding behaviors.

The fully multi-coated optics with BAK4 prism deliver excellent light transmission. During a cloudy day at the reservoir, these performed noticeably better than a competitor’s binoculars in the same price range. The image remained bright and contrasty even as evening approached.

At 1.1 pounds, these are among the lightest full-size binoculars I tested. This makes them a good compromise for birders who want 42mm light gathering but balk at the weight of premium European models. I carried these on a five-mile hike without neck strain.

The included 360-degree rotatable tripod is a nice bonus for stationary viewing. It works well for backyard birding from a patio or deck. The phone adapter is functional but basic. It gets the job done for casual documentation but serious digiscopers will want dedicated equipment.

The field of view is 367 feet at 1000 yards, which matches what you would expect from 12x magnification. I found tracking fast-flying swallows challenging but manageable with practice. Slower birds like herons and egrets were easy to follow.

Who Should Buy These

These suit birders who prioritize image size and brightness over premium build quality. If you want the large image experience of expensive binoculars without the price tag, the Adorrgon delivers. The lightweight design also appeals to hikers and travelers who need full-size optics without the weight penalty.

The included accessories make this a complete starter kit for new birders. You get optics, a carrying case, neck strap, lens cloths, and digiscoping equipment all in one purchase. This simplifies the buying decision for gift-givers or those just starting out.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The minimum focus distance of 9-10 feet limits backyard feeder watching. If you want to study birds at close range, look for binoculars with close focus under 6 feet. For general field birding, this limitation rarely matters.

These are not suitable for astronomy use. The focus mechanism does not handle stars well, producing bloated or distorted images. If you want dual-purpose binoculars for both birding and stargazing, consider the Athlon Midas instead.

6. Nikon Trailblazer 8x25mm ATB – Trusted Brand Compact

Nikon’s reputation in optics spans decades, and the Trailblazer ATB lives up to that heritage. The Japanese-made glass delivers image quality that exceeds expectations for compact binoculars in this price range. I have used these as my travel binoculars for two years now.

The dual-hinge foldable design allows these to collapse smaller than a deck of cards. They fit easily into jacket pockets, making them ideal for spontaneous birding. I carry these when running errands around town and have spotted interesting birds while waiting in parking lots.

The close focus distance of under 7 feet is exceptional for compact binoculars. This makes them surprisingly versatile for butterfly watching, museum visits, and theater use in addition to birding. Most compact binoculars cannot focus this close.

The nitrogen-filled, O-ring sealed construction provides genuine waterproofing and fogproofing. I have used these in heavy rain without issue. The rubber armor provides a secure grip and decent shock protection from the inevitable drops that come with pocket carry.

The fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission. While the 25mm objective cannot match 42mm binoculars at dawn and dusk, these perform admirably during daylight hours. The wide 60-degree apparent angle of view reduces the tunnel vision feeling common in cheaper compacts.

Who Should Buy These

These are perfect for birders who prioritize portability above all else. If you want binoculars that disappear into a pocket until needed, the Trailblazer delivers. Travelers, hikers, and urban birders will appreciate the minimal bulk.

The Nikon brand name also provides confidence for buyers who want established quality. The lifetime limited warranty backs up that reputation with actual protection for your investment. These make excellent gifts for the quality-conscious.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The 10mm eye relief is tight for glasses wearers. You may struggle to see the full field of view with prescription lenses. Consider the Occer 12×25 if you require more generous eye relief in a compact format.

The small focus knob requires more precise finger control than larger binoculars. This is the trade-off for the compact size. After a few hours of use, I adapted to it, but initially found it fiddly compared to full-size alternatives.

7. Bushnell H2O 8×25 Binoculars – Rugged Waterproof Design

Bushnell built their reputation on durable outdoor optics, and the H2O series delivers on that promise. These binoculars are designed to survive the rough handling that comes with active birding. I have dropped mine twice on rocky trails with no damage beyond cosmetic scuffs.

The IPX7 waterproof rating means these can handle immersion. I tested this during a kayaking trip where they went overboard and spent several minutes in the lake. After drying the exterior, they functioned perfectly with no internal moisture.

The BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics provide good image quality for the price point. While not on par with the Athlon Midas, they clearly outperform generic binoculars in the same price range. The contrast is particularly good for separating birds from busy backgrounds.

The aluminum body keeps weight reasonable while providing structural rigidity. At 16 ounces, these are heavier than some compacts but still portable. The rubber armor has a soft-touch texture that improves grip security in wet conditions.

The twist-up eyecups accommodate glasses wearers reasonably well. I found them comfortable for 30-minute viewing sessions. The long eye relief is not specified in the top-tier range but works adequately for most prescription lens thicknesses.

Who Should Buy These

Choose these if you bird in harsh conditions or tend to be hard on equipment. The rugged construction handles abuse that would damage more delicate optics. Kayakers, boaters, and coastal birders will appreciate the superior waterproofing.

The Bushnell brand carries weight in hunting and outdoor circles, making these a good choice if you also need optics for other outdoor activities. The durability focus suits multi-purpose use better than delicate premium binoculars.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The diopter adjustment knob is small and lacks positive detents. I found it easy to bump accidentally, requiring readjustment. After finding the correct setting, I recommend adding a piece of tape to prevent unintended movement.

The optical quality is good but not exceptional. If you primarily bird in excellent light conditions, these perform admirably. For dawn and dusk work, the 25mm objective limits performance compared to 42mm alternatives at similar prices.

8. FLYANT 20×50 High Powered Binoculars – Maximum Magnification

The FLYANT 20×50 binoculars offer the highest magnification in our roundup, providing serious reach for distant birding situations. At 20x power, these are approaching spotting scope territory while maintaining the portability of binoculars.

The 50mm objective lenses gather substantial light, offsetting the dimming effect of high magnification. I used these successfully during a hawk watch where identifying distant raptors required maximum power. The 168-yard field of view at 1000 yards is narrow but usable with practice.

The BAK4 Porro prism design with 99.8% light transmission delivers bright images despite the high magnification. The green FMC anti-reflective coating reduces glare when viewing toward the sun. Image quality exceeded my expectations for the price point.

The 26mm eyepiece is comfortable for extended viewing sessions. Eye fatigue was less pronounced than with other high-power binoculars I have used. The ergonomic handles provide a secure grip, though you will definitely want to brace these against something solid for steady images.

The tripod mount is essential for getting the most from 20x magnification. Hand-holding is possible but challenging. I recommend using a monopod or tripod whenever possible to eliminate shake and see the full resolving power of the optics.

Who Should Buy These

These suit experienced birders who need maximum magnification for specific situations. Hawk watchers, shorebird counters, and those who bird primarily in open country will appreciate the extra reach. Beginners may find the high magnification frustrating without proper technique.

The low price makes these attractive for occasional use when you need high power but cannot justify expensive optics. Keep these in your car for roadside raptor identification or beach birding where distance is unavoidable.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The eyepieces are not designed for glasses wearers. If you require prescription lenses, you may struggle to see the full field of view. The focus wheel edges are somewhat sharp and can pinch fingers during rapid adjustment.

Some users question whether the true magnification is actually 20x. Independent testing suggests it may be closer to 15-16x. This is still substantial power for the price, but expectations should be realistic. For the cost, the optical quality represents good value regardless of the exact magnification figure.

9. Hontry 10×25 Compact Binoculars – Budget Starter Choice

The Hontry 10×25 binoculars prove that decent birding optics do not require significant investment. At around $20, these deliver performance that was impossible at this price point just a few years ago. I purchased these specifically to test the budget limit for acceptable birding binoculars.

The Bak-4 prisms deliver 3D depth images with reasonable detail. I successfully identified sparrows at 50 yards and warblers at treetop height. The images are not as crisp as premium alternatives, but perfectly serviceable for recreational birding and species identification.

The adjustable interpupillary distance from 60mm to 75mm accommodates both children and adults. I had my 8-year-old nephew use these successfully after a brief explanation of how to adjust the barrels. The compact size fits his small hands well.

At 0.6 pounds, these are genuinely pocketable. I carried them in my cargo shorts pocket during a summer birding festival without discomfort. The rubber armor provides adequate protection for the inevitable drops that come with casual use.

The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind for such an inexpensive purchase. Most budget binoculars offer no warranty at all. This suggests Hontry stands behind their product more than typical low-cost optics manufacturers.

Who Should Buy These

These are ideal for children, casual birders, or anyone who wants to try birding without significant financial commitment. The low price removes the barrier to entry that expensive optics create. If you are unsure whether birding will become a serious hobby, start here.

The compact size and light weight also make these good backup binoculars to keep in your car or desk drawer. Having any binoculars available beats missing a bird because your primary pair was not handy.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The included accessories are minimal quality. The case is thin nylon, and the strap is basic webbing. Plan to replace these if you use the binoculars regularly. The optics themselves are the value here, not the extras.

Edge sharpness falls off compared to the center of the image. This is typical for budget binoculars but worth noting. Keep birds in the center of the field for best results. The focus wheel works adequately but lacks the smooth precision of premium models.

10. Aurosports 10×25 Compact Binoculars – Family-Friendly Option

The Aurosports 10×25 binoculars strike a balance between quality and affordability that makes them ideal for families. At just 8.8 ounces, even young children can hold these steady for reasonable periods. I tested these with my own children during a park visit.

The premium BAK4 prisms and fully multi-coated lenses deliver better optical quality than typical toy binoculars. My kids successfully identified cardinals, blue jays, and robins in our neighborhood. The images are bright enough to maintain their interest, which is the primary goal with young birders.

The shockproof silicone eyecups provide safety for enthusiastic young users. I appreciate that there are no hard metal edges near where children’s eyes contact the binoculars. The adjustable eye width accommodates growing children over multiple years.

The low-light performance is surprisingly good for compact binoculars. We used these successfully at dusk when larger birds like herons were active. The 362-foot field of view at 1000 yards is adequate for tracking birds in typical backyard or park settings.

The non-slip rubber armor helps small hands maintain grip security. My 7-year-old had no trouble holding these steady enough for usable images. The center focus wheel is large enough for children to operate with some coaching.

Who Should Buy These

These are perfect for families introducing children to birding. The durability, light weight, and reasonable optical quality create a package that works for young users without breaking the budget. Adults can use these in a pinch too, making them versatile household binoculars.

They also suit travelers who want multiple pairs for family outings. Buying four of these costs less than one premium binocular, allowing everyone to participate in birding activities together.

Considerations Before Purchasing

The neck strap attachment point is not as secure as premium binoculars. Check it regularly and consider replacing the strap with a more robust option if used by active children. The included strap is adequate for adult use but marginal for rough handling.

Focusing requires more coordination than young children typically possess. Plan to focus for children under 10 years old, or choose a fixed-focus model if buying specifically for very young users. These work best as supervised family equipment rather than independent optics for small children.

How to Choose the Best Binoculars for Bird Watching in 2026?

Understanding the technical specifications helps you make an informed decision. Here is what matters most when selecting birding binoculars.

Understanding Magnification: 8x vs 10x vs 12x

Magnification is the first number in binocular specifications, such as 8×42. Most experienced birders prefer 7x or 8x magnification. Lower magnification provides a wider field of view, brighter images, and steadier views due to reduced hand shake.

Higher magnifications like 10x or 12x bring distant birds closer but narrow your field of view and amplify hand movement. You need steady hands or a tripod to use 12x binoculars effectively. For most birding situations, 8x represents the sweet spot between reach and usability.

Objective Lens Size: 25mm vs 42mm

The second number refers to the diameter of the front lenses in millimeters. Larger objectives gather more light, producing brighter images, especially at dawn and dusk when birds are most active. A 42mm objective captures significantly more light than a 25mm.

However, larger objectives mean heavier, bulkier binoculars. Compact 25mm binoculars fit in pockets and add minimal weight to your pack. Many birders own both sizes, using compacts for travel and full-size 42mm binoculars for serious birding sessions.

Field of View: Why It Matters for Birding

Field of view measures how wide an area you can see at 1000 yards. Wider fields make finding birds easier and help you track flying birds. At 8x magnification, look for at least 350 feet field of view. At 10x or 12x, 300 feet is acceptable.

Narrow fields of view create a tunnel vision effect that frustrates birders, especially beginners. Once you locate a bird, narrow fields work fine, but finding that initial target is much harder without adequate width.

Eye Relief for Glasses Wearers

Eye relief measures how far your eye can be from the eyepiece while still seeing the full image. Glasses wearers need at least 15mm of eye relief, with 17mm or more providing comfortable viewing. Without adequate eye relief, you will see black edges or vignetting.

Twist-up eyecups allow you to adjust the distance between your eyes and the lenses. Glasses wearers typically keep eyecups twisted down, while non-glasses users twist them up to the correct eye relief distance.

Prism Types: Roof vs Porro

Roof prism binoculars have straight barrels and a compact, streamlined shape. Porro prism binoculars have offset barrels that create a zigzag light path. Roof prisms are more durable and compact but historically cost more for equivalent optical quality.

Modern manufacturing has narrowed the gap, and good roof prism binoculars are available at reasonable prices. Porro prisms still offer slightly better three-dimensional image quality for less money but sacrifice durability and weather sealing.

Optical Coatings and Glass Quality

Fully multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces. This maximizes light transmission and reduces glare. Avoid binoculars labeled “coated” or “multi-coated” rather than “fully multi-coated” for serious birding.

BAK-4 prisms provide better light transmission than cheaper BK-7 prisms. Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass reduces chromatic aberration, the color fringing visible on high-contrast edges. ED glass is found in premium binoculars and significantly improves image quality.

Weather Protection Features

Waterproof binoculars are sealed with O-rings and filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging. This protection is essential for birding in rain or humid conditions. Look for IPX7 ratings or manufacturer claims of waterproofing to specific depths.

Rubber armor provides shock protection and improves grip. Argon purging is theoretically superior to nitrogen for thermal stability, though both work well in practice. Any quality birding binocular should be waterproof and fogproof.

Weight and Portability Considerations

Full-size 42mm binoculars typically weigh 1.5 to 2 pounds. Compact 25mm models range from 8 to 12 ounces. Heavier binoculars provide better stability but cause fatigue during all-day use. Consider a binocular harness that distributes weight across your shoulders rather than your neck.

If you hike long distances to birding locations, weight matters significantly. Many serious birders own both full-size and compact binoculars, choosing based on the specific outing. For travel, compact binoculars are almost always the better choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

After months of testing, the Athlon Optics 8×42 Midas UHD remains my top recommendation for most birders in 2026. The ED glass and premium coatings deliver optical quality that rivals binoculars costing three times as much. For budget-conscious buyers, the Adasion 8×42 offers exceptional value with genuine waterproofing and glasses-friendly design.

The best binoculars for bird watching ultimately depend on your specific needs. Consider where you bird, whether you wear glasses, and how much weight you are willing to carry. Any of the ten models in this guide will serve you better than squinting at distant birds with the naked eye.

Birding transforms ordinary walks into adventures of discovery. The right binoculars reveal a hidden world of color, behavior, and beauty that exists just beyond our unaided sight. Whether you choose a budget compact or a premium full-size model, the important thing is getting outside and looking up. The birds are waiting.