Before the year takes flight, make sure your birding gear is ready. From field guides and binoculars to cold-weather clothing and accessories, this January gear check helps you prepare for successful birding trips all year long.

What do you want your birding life to look like in 2026? Whether your goal is improving birding skills, adding lifers, or planning a dream trip, this post explores how setting clear intentions—and creating an action plan—can dramatically improve your chances of success.

What do you want your birding life to look like in 2026? Whether your goal is improving birding skills, adding lifers, or planning a dream trip, this post explores how setting clear intentions—and creating an action plan—can dramatically improve your chances of success.

January is the perfect time for birders to plan the year ahead. Whether you’re exploring new local parks or traveling to iconic birding hotspots like High Island, Sax-Zim Bog, or Southeast Arizona, timing and preparation make all the difference. This guide walks you through how to plan birding trips—from choosing the right place and season to using eBird, studying local checklists, preparing for weather, and checking your gear—so every trip brings more confidence, joy, and memorable sightings.

Birders are famous for keeping lists—life lists, year lists, yard lists, county lists, and more. But these lists aren’t just for fun. They track migration patterns, first and last sightings, travel memories, and valuable data used in citizen science. Here’s why listing is one of the most meaningful habits in all of birding.

January offers birders a fresh start —new year lists, Big Day excitement, and a chance to plan trips, improve habitats, and dream big. Discover why January inspires bird listers, garden planners, travelers, and anyone ready to make this their most organized and joyful birding year yet.

Looking for the best birding apps to support your birdwatching adventures? This guide compares Merlin, eBird, Audubon Bird Guide, Sibley Birds, iNaturalist, and Chirp! with clear pros, cons, and recommendations for beginners through advanced birders. Whether you’re identifying a mystery bird or learning songs, these apps—and a trusty paper guide—will make birding easier and more rewarding.

Noticing is one of the most important birding skills you can develop. In Part 2 of our Beginning Birding series, learn how to spot subtle movements, see field marks, practice awareness exercises, and use ducks as perfect binocular training partners. These simple habits make you a more confident, observant birder.