Birdwatching can be a lot of fun all year round. By visiting different habitats at different times of the year, you will find different birds. Many birdwatchers or birders have a yearly or life list. These lists can be extensive. Some Iowa birders have "big day counts," where birdwatchers try to visit as many habitats and areas all over the state of Iowa to observe and count the most species of birds in one day. A top "big day count" in Iowa may include 190 species. Not all species live in the same habitat, so try to visit several different types.
So how do you begin to watch birds? Look at the types of habitats in your area. Determine what season will be best. Spring and fall migration are good times of the year because many bird species are migrating. The best time to see birds is early morning or late afternoon.
Birding Iowa - produced by Jason Prine, Mediacom