5 Gifts for Birdwatchers

Is there a special birdwatcher in your life? You know, that person who never travels without binoculars and who remembers a location by that rare bird he added to his life list while visiting?

Here are a few ways to bring a smile to his face this Christmas:

  1. Backyard Bird Feeder’s Bible: Every birdwatcher needs a copy of this handy guide to species, seeds, flowers, and more. From DIY projects to landscaping tips to identification helps, just about everything a birdwatcher could want to know is included. If they don’t have one yet, by all means, complete their library! Read our full review.
  2. Field guide: If your birdwatching friend or youngster is just starting out, give him a copy of the Peterson guide for either eastern or western North America. More seasoned birders probably already have a field guide they rely on; supplement their collection with a guide specific to their state. Try The Guide to Kansas Birds and Birding Hot Spots, or search Amazon for guides for other states. Read our reviews for the Peterson guides and The Guide to Kansas Birds.
  3. Squirrel-proof feeder: A good squirrel-proof feeder can do more than just keep squirrels at bay. It is sturdy enough to last for years, and it may even lock out undesirable birds like crows and blue jays. This excellent hopper-style model holds quite a bit of birdseed and can be either hung or mounted on a pole.
  4. Birder’s journal: This may be the best journal your birdwatching friend has ever tried. Compact size, waterproof cover, sturdy paper—what more could an all-weather birder want? Read our full review.
  5. Complete Book of Birdhouse Construction: Do you know a birdwatcher who is also handy in the shop? This little book may give him a few ideas on how to tailor his projects to his favorite birds. Read our full review.