Birdwatching Necessities for the Beginner
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Submitted by Jeffrey Stilwell
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Page 2 of 2
Other Birding Necessities
To be prepared to spend the day outdoors with your bird friends, you'll need the following minimum supplies:
- A sunscreen of at least 15 SPF. This will provide moderate protection
from the sun. For extended periods of time, go for an SPF of 30+.
- Water. You lose lots of water while hiking which can lead to
dehydration. Take a canteen or bottled water. Drink lots of water
before you start your hike and take periodic sips along the way.
- Insect repellant. For the best possible protection against mosquitoes
and other insects, you should apply the insect repellant to both your
skin and your clothing, according to the label instructions.
- Footwear. You'll be doing lots of walking and hiking and you'll want
the most comfortable boots possible. In addition, if there's the
possibility that you will be trekking through marsh or extremely damp
conditions, you should take along a pair of knee-high rubber boots.
- Rain gear. Weather conditions can change quickly so you want to be
prepared for possible rainfalls. A lightweight, waterproof, breathable
piece of rainwear could be indispensable.
- Snacks. These are for
you, not the birds. Take along some high energy store bought or home
made granola bars, fruits, and nuts and you'll be good to go.
If
you survive and enjoy your first outing and feel that you'll definitely
be doing this again, then the manufactures of birding supplies will
love you as you will undoubtedly be back in their stores to buy
cameras, recorders, and other hight priced items in preparation for
your next trip.
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