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Just as a pair of binoculars are very useful when watching birds,
there are a number of other pieces of equipment that are good to
have with you on any bird walk. Carry a little notepad and a
pencil in your pocket for taking notes and making quick sketches
of any bird that appears unusual or new. Many birdwatchers also
like to carry a bird book—a field guide—with them so
that they can quickly name the bird they are watching. The
details of the birds easily become confused or forgotten on
returning from the walk. We will be looking at field guides later
in this series. In this article we look at some of the gear you
need to think of when you go birding.
Shoes
There is a range of shoes available that are suitable for the
average birdwatching walk. Comfort is the main criterion here.
Any light pair of walking shoes should really do, though each
birdwatcher has his or her favourite. Some people prefer to walk
in sandals. Makes sure that the sole is durable and provides a
good grip—sometimes the terrain can get steep or slippery.
Water
Carrying water is again a matter of preference. As a thumb rule,
for any birding trip lasting more than an hour’s duration,
it is a good idea to carry a bottle or flask of water. Take a
bottle with a strap for slinging around your shoulder. The sun
can turn extremely warm even soon after it rises in most parts of
India.
With children in a group, it might be a good idea to have some
light refreshments such as biscuits.
Clothing
When you go birding, there is choice regarding colour of
clothing: it should be dull—brown, grey or green are the
preferred colours. Wearing light pink, blue or yellow is a good
way of making the birds take to the wing even when you are far
away!. Your movements of course must be slow and not designed to
frighten birds away. There are some places, of course, where the
birds are tolerant of human beings. In Binsar, swallows may be
seen on their mud nests in the village shops and outside the
rooms at Manipur Villa—inches above your head!
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Make
sure that the clothing is suitable for the weather and place. A
strong pair of trousers protect you if there is any pushing
through vegetation involved.
Caps
Most people like them, some do not. Carry a cap with you as
protection against the sun. Caps can have other uses too, like
protecting your valuable binoculars if you get caught in a sudden
shower of rain. There is a make of cap called the Tilly. The
manufacturer claims it can be used to bail water out of a leaking
boat!
In
the end, remember that common sense should dictate the amount of
tackle you carry out for a bird walk. It is all too easy to carry
too much gear. Remember you will have to bring it back as well!
With a whole lot of things hanging from them, birders may end up
looking up like the proverbial decorated Christmas tree!
Happy
birding till we meet again!
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