Start a local bird journal

Make it: Record three birds from one spot

Start here · 30 minutes, repeated twice

Gather: Notebook, pencil, safe viewing place, and local bird guide

Step by step

1. Choose a public or permitted place away from nests. Note the date, time, weather, and where you stood.
2. Watch one bird without chasing it. Sketch its outline and write three observed clues: size, colour pattern, and behaviour or sound.
3. Repeat for two more sightings. A second sighting of the same species still counts as useful observation.
4. Use a local guide to compare candidates. Mark the identification “possible” when the clues are not enough.
5. Return at another time and compare which birds or behaviours changed.

You're done when: Three dated entries contain evidence a second person could use, even if a species remains uncertain.

Next project: Compare two nearby habitats

Two 30-minute visits

1. Choose two safe, permitted spots such as a garden and a park; stay away from nests and do not disturb wildlife.
2. At each spot use the same observation time and record weather, visible birds, and three field marks per uncertain bird.
3. Use a local guide to check tentative identifications and leave uncertain sightings labelled as such.
4. Compare behaviour and habitat notes, not only the number of species, and write one question for a return visit.

You're done when: Two comparable logs show at least one difference in birds or behaviour with evidence attached.

Course plan

1. Choose a respectful spot
2. Record field marks
3. Use a guide cautiously
4. Compare over time