Bird Identification Tools

lordgoat

Hey all,

Can I ask what guides ye would recommend to start out with for bird id in Ireland. I'm fairly good with common enough birds - starlings, robins, thrushes some finches etc. But would like to be more sure of things.

Any books, websites, apps or even tips that people use would be great.

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For a good all rounder, including plants and insects, there's the Collins Complete Irish Wildlife.
For birds, I'm old school and use The Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe.

lordgoat

a little bump

FBWT

lordgoat wrote: »

a little bump

I quite like this one, handy size so easy for taking on a casual walk or in the garden https://shop.birdwatchireland.ie/birdwatchireland/product_info.php?cPath=35_87&products_id=940&osCsid=adp45alpnekjvdd5qemjdha6s1

I also use the big black Collins Guide. I've been trying to get better at identifying gulls and think the illustratations really help
https://shop.birdwatchireland.ie/birdwatchireland/product_info.php?cPath=35_87&products_id=712&osCsid=adp45alpnekjvdd5qemjdha6s1
It's a bit better off a dead weight tho 😂

OpenYourEyes

The books recommended by FBWT above are both great - get the first one first, and make yourself look up any birds you come across or struggle with.

It would be worth getting involved in your local BirdWatch Ireland or Irish Wildlife Trust branch too - most branches organise outings as well as talks, so they can be a great chance to learn from more experienced people!

(Full disclosure, I do work for BirdWatch Ireland)

Eddie B

As well as identifying birds by sight, it's also good to learn their sounds. Here's a good site, that shows bird species, and their sounds

https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/