How to Identify Birds Using Online Resources

While no online source can take the place of a good field guide, there are several places online where you can get help identifying birds. It helps if you have an idea of the bird's species and are merely looking to confirm it, but at least one site will help you start from scratch.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• binoculars
• field guide
• computer

1. Go to WhatBird at www.whatbird.com. Click on SearchBirds.

2. One by one, enter the attributes of the bird that you are trying to identify. Options include habitat, color, backyard feeder, bill length, readily eats, bill shape, location, shape, size, wing shape, and family.

3. Get more specific by entering information on the topics in the left-hand column. These include descriptions of basics, pattern, head, body, and flight .

4. Look at the species offered as possibilities until you find the one that matches the description of the bird you saw.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are pretty sure you know the name of the bird you saw, but want to confirm the ID, go to the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology's Web site at www.birds.cornell.edu. Click on All About Birds and then on Bird Guide. Choose from the drop-down menu the name of the bird and you will be directed to several pages describing the bird's appearance, habits, habitat, range, and nesting behavior.

[Namibnat]

on 9/8/2008 Another important way to use the internet for bird identification is through forums, where individuals can help you to make your identifications and can ask you questions to get the right information to make a good id.