Bushnell Powerview 10x32 Compact Folding Binocular

Travelers, nature observers and concert goers take note: the PowerView series offers the largest line of Bushnell quality, affordable binoculars. No matter what your purpose, you'll find a variety of magnifications, styles and sizes, and fully coated optics for bright, vivid images. The porro prism line-up provides great durability and performance in an attractive "traditional" porro prism design. Compact to full-sized, the contemporary styling houses fully coated optics. Suffice to say, images are crisp, clear and bright - even in low light. Affordable for any and all interested in magnifying life to its fullest.

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La Vallee (aka "The Valley Obscured By Clouds")

While The Godfather was making moviegoers an offer they couldn't refuse, La Vallée was wowing art-house crowds with its flower-powered search for paradise in the jungles of New Guinea. It's there that an adventurous diplomat's wife (Bulle Ogier), hoping to find the forbidden feathers of a rare exotic bird, embarks on a deeper, more personal quest when she encounters a makeshift family of hippies seeking an unmapped valley from which visitors are said never to return. Like the structurally similar cult films from its era (including Walkabout and Aguirre: The Wrath of God), La Vallée dazzled the post-'60s subculture with free-spirited adventure and enigmatic beauty, captured here through the peerless lens of cinematographer Néstor Almendros. The hippie vibe seems mildly dated but its sensual context is timeless, and a climactic encounter with the primitive Mapuga tribe retains an intense cross-cultural mystique. Pink Floyd's celebrated soundtrack is mostly heard as background ambience, but it effectively enhances the film's compelling atmosphere of mystery and expectation. --Jeff Shannon

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Bird Watching - A Hobby with A Cause

Bird watching as a hobby has long been contested by the birders, saying that the two are not in any way the same. While birdwatchers do such as part of an activity during recreation, birders are into it with intense dedication.

The Birders

May it be in the UK or in the United States, birders say that what they are doing is far from just a pastime or a relaxation thing. For them, they do such to study not only the species of birds but also their patterns. They don't base their analogies on mere observation and they invest on the latest optical equipments to strengthen their claims.

Instead of going where the birdwatchers usually go, the birders are always on the lookout for new and unexplored sites, hoping to find more information. They would even allot a budget for travel, however far it will take them, just to expand their knowledge and to discern a lot more about the subject that they are most interested about, birds.

The Birdwatchers

These people go about bird watching by only observing with their eyes. They may also opt for binoculars but aren't really focusing on the technology. They wouldn't care if their apparels are not the latest in the market, they can even go about without those gadgets. What's important is that they get a sense of fulfillment from what they are doing, they get to relax, see the birds and enjoy the sights.

The birdwatchers couldn't care less where they do their stuff. They would even do it on their own backyards or just go to nature reserves nearest to them. If they happen to be on vacation, they can do it wherever they are, whenever they please to do it. These people has the love for the birds but don't really want to take that feeling further by going the scientific route, because by doing so, they might miss out the fun that they intend to have.

The Right Time

Bird watching on regions that have temperate weather are most active in the spring and fall migrations. During such time, the widest array of birds could be seen as these birds relocate northbound or southbound in trying to find nesting sites.

For the hobbyists and professionals, it is advisable to do the act in the early morning where the birds are looking for food. This way, observation can be done at a lengthier time and you can see them easily while they are onto their task.

Seawatching

This type of bird watching is for people who would go near coastal areas to find watch points like the headland to be able to see the birds flying over to the sea. The birds that can be observed from such are called the pelagic kinds. The pelagic species of birds can also be observed when one is aboard a seagoing vessel.

Proper Etiquette

Whether you're a birder or a birdwatcher, you should always look out for the wellbeing of the birds and also have some positive notes on what you are doing. You can lead the way to promote cleanliness of the environment so that the natural habitat for this kind wouldn't be harmed. Also, you should be vigilant about the latest technology when you use them as part of the activity, that it won't affect the birds in a negative manner.

Bird watching may just be a hobby but one that must be done with passion and concern about the birds and their welfare.

California - A Haven for Bird Watching

Bird watchers should not be mistaken for ornithologists because the latter are into the scientific study of the bird species while the former do such with mere observation through the eyes. Bird watching is a popular hobby in California because the place has many sites wherein you could enjoy such.

Birder's Delight

This is how enthusiasts claim California to be. The place's almost perfect nature, with the palm trees or pine trees surrounding it, the tundra foliage at over 14,000 feet at the peak of the Sierras, and deep down 282 feet that is below sea level, Death Valley has its cactuses.

Such scenario makes the place one happy habitat for birds and one must-see destination for bird watchers.

Species Variety

California is a habitat for about 600 species of birds. With such variety, a person who loves this activity will never be bored in this place. And while you're out there looking for the birds and waiting to observe the many different kinds of it, California offers such scenic spots that would make you feel at one with nature.

No wonder how the birds flock over to this spot. The place really is a natural habitat that people must also feel responsible keeping it the way it is, respecting every creature even the birds.

As an enthusiast, you have plenty of spots to choose from when in California to see those birds while feasting your eyes with the beauty of your surroundings.

King Range National Conservation Area

This is located in San Francisco and home to an array of natural habitats such as an estuary, the evergreen forest, the riparian spots along the streams of freshwater, a captivating coastal prairie among others. At this place, you'll find bird species like the woodpeckers, swifts, hummingbirds, even ducks and geese, pelican, terns, loons. And this is just few of the long list of the different birds habituating the area.

Bodega Bay

This is located in the Sonoma County. You'll mostly find sandpipers and also terns in August, and September and October are hectic months for bird watchers because this is the time when the migrants arrive in the area, both the shorebirds and those that are on land.

Sierra Mountains

This can be found in between California and Nevada. Such mountainous vicinity is home to many bird varieties like the American Pipits, the Western Bluebirds, Palm Warblers, chats, vireos, Indigo Buntings. And this list is only a few of the many kinds of birds that one will be able to find here making this a birder's favorite.

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve

Located in San Bernardino County, the greenery surrounding the spot really is the key why some 266 native kinds of birds flock around and have been recorded on the area. The place has rich vegetation and is being surrounded with desert slopes. The reason for that is because it is situated between two deserts, Mojave and the Sonoran.

The list for hot spots for those who are into bird watching in California is long and you have a wide array to choose from. The Web is a vast resource of information if you'd still want to know more about some more places, even where to go about it and the list of bird species that you can find in it.

Bird Watching Tips for Beginners

Bird watching can be a very fun and interesting activity once you are familiar with the thing that you need to know when doing it. The first thing that you need to familiarize yourself about bird watching is identifying the bird that you will watch.

This very task is quite challenging because it is not easy to identify them especially when they are so many feet away from the ground. Since birds are energetic and active animals, you need a clear and quick eye to be able to see as many details possible in such as very short period of time.

Aside from being too far away from you, other problems that you might encounter—especially if you are a first time bird watcher—is the dim light shaded by trees, the glint of sunlight that can affect your sight, and the hidden places where birds go to play. So, when you are into bird watching, it is always best to have a general knowledge on bird's attitudes and observe them carefully. You might not name them properly the first time but you definitely can the next time if you pay proper attention in observing them.

The following are just of the helpful tips that can help you in your very first bird watching session:

- Always keep on eye on one bird. Bird watching is more effective if one uses a binocular. When you are bird watching, try to spot only one bird that catches your attention. Once you have seen one, never take your eyes off it because it might fly to a place where you cannot see it.

In most bird watching centers, beginners are given a field guide in a form of a booklet or brochure so they can identify the bird once they have seen one. Once you know what is it, take time to observe its physical details as well as its behaviors and mannerisms. Make sure that you observe the bird's movements, markings, feeding habits, songs, color, and size so you can easily identify it the next time you see it.

- Make sure that you listen intently for the bird's calls and song. Although listening for a bird's song is easy, it doesn’t stay long in a person's memory. What you should do is to listen intently when the bird calls or sings and play the bird's song in your mind repetitively. Listening to a bird's call and song is important because it can help you identify the bird even without seeing it.

- Take time to estimate the bird's shape and general size. The average shape and size of the bird will give you a huge clue in finding out the family it came from. In bird watching, make sure that you assess its overall appearance and take note of its approximate size and shape. Once you can tell from the size and shape of the bird what kind is it, then you are doing good.

- Pay attention to the bill characteristics and facial markings of the bird in sight. This is one of the hardest things to do because the average of almost all birds are small. They also keep on moving so it will be hard to take note any unique markings on their faces. It is also equally hard to take note of characteristics of its bills because most birds keep on pecking all the time.

To get these details, spot a bird that doesn’t fly around that much. Once you found one, start observing it head by looking for any distinguishing hue patches or color strips. These can be present in their eye lines, crowns, napes, and arcs or in the rings.

Peru Bird Watching

Peru bird watching is one of the greatest things a bird watching hobbyist could ever experience. This is because the place provides a great background not only on magnificent bird life but can also present to you a landscape gifted with almost everything the nature has to offer.

Next to Colombia, Peru is the next country that has the largest variety of bird species available. Because of its unique topography and strategic geography, Peru offers a great habitat for so many birds in almost all parts of the world.

Studies show that there is almost 2000 bird species existing in Peru. Ornithologists—people who conduct scientific study on the life of wild and domestic birds. Investigate and record their anatomy, behavior, evolutionary development, ecology, classification, and species distribution—say that almost 19 percent of all the bird species in the world and almost 50 percent of neo-tropical birds can be found in Peru. The country also offers virgin forests that are perfect habitat for rare species of birds as well as animals.

The best places for Peru bird watching

Knowing how rich the variety of birds present in the country, no bird watching hobbyist can resist visiting the country. But before packing your bags and your binoculars, it is a must that you conduct a brief research first about the country so you can maximize your stay there. In your research, you should include the list of things that you need and the best places to conduct the activity. Here are some of the best places for Peru bird watching:

1. The Paracas National Reserve. This is considered as one of the most spectacular and convenient places to go bird watching in Peru. Located at Lima, this preserve in Paracas can be reached after almost 4 hours. The common birds that can be seen in the area include the Humboldt Current, the Pisco, Dark-faced Ground Tyrant, Peruvian Thick-knee, and Tawny-throated Dotterel.

2. The Lomas de Lachay National Reserve. You can reach this place if you traveling almost 100 kms. north of capital city—Lima. If you are into daytime bird watching, this is the ideal place for you because the place can only accommodate a small number of people. Although it is quite far, the trip will worth it because you will find rare species of Thick-billed Miner and Yellow-finches.

3. The Marcapomacocha. This area is almost five hours away from the capital city. But, the trip will really delight hardcore bird watchers because the place offers the view of some of the world's most rare bird species including different breeds of Andean species, Sandpipers, the beautiful White-bellied Cinclodes, and black-breasted Hillstar that is really popular in the country.

You can also enjoy the off road views in the Giant Coot located in the lake of Marcapomacocha, the Lake Junin, the Huánuco, and the Carpish range. (TIP: Make sure that you bring lots of water when you go to these places because the weather can be so hot and cause you dehydration.)

4. The Huascarán Biosphere Reserv. Located at Huaráz in central Andes, the reserve can be reached after almost 10 hours of driving. Before reaching the place where you can find the rare White-cheeked Cotinga, different kinds of finches, and Andean Condors, you will pass through breathtaking mountain ranges and lakes.

5. The Chiclayo-Cajamarca Circuit. Peru bird watching can never be complete without visiting this establishment because you can see the most legendary and rare species of birds that can only be seen in Peru including the buff-bridled inca finch, long-whiskered owlet, marañon crescent-chest, and the marvellous spatule-tail.

Somebody's Watching

2008 digitally remastered and expanded edition of this classic album from the Progressive Rock/Art Rock band, originally released in 1973. Somebody's Watching features guest musicians Nic Potter (of Van Der Graaf Generator) and former Family and future King Crimson/Asia member John Wetton. and includes their classic interpretation of Ennio Morricone's theme to "A Fistful of Dollars". This reissue also features both sides of their 1973 single "Virginia" as bonus tracks. Esoteric.

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Bird Watching For Beginners Guide - How to Start Birding?

Are you interested in bird watching, but done nothing about it yet? For many of us birding is already a very popular hobby that we get a lot of enjoyment from. You can get the same enjoyment too if you take one simple step and start birding. Without doubt bird watching is great fun and it is also educational for you and anyone that goes with you.

The good news is that it is also an inexpensive hobby, so getting started is easy. Another useful benefit is that it is also a very good way to get some exercise every day. Birding also has a social scene as well if you want it and this makes it excellent for making new friends and acquaintances.

There are literally millions of people across the nation, who have bird watching as one of their hobbies, if not their main hobby. Most birders watch the birds just because they really enjoy the beauty of what they get to see. And of course some just love to be outdoors and watching the birds is a great bonus. If you are photographer then taking up birding is a great way to help you improve your photography skills.

You can enjoy birding in many different ways and this variety makes it a very attractive hobby for all. If you like travelling then as a bird watcher you have many destinations around the world that you can visit to see some of the rarest birds on the planet.

But for most of us this hobby is attractive because it is something we can do locally on our own patch. It's easy to travel locally to woodlands or a nature preserve with just a pair of binoculars. This is all you need to do to go birding. You can do it any time and whenever you feel like it. You can even bird watch at home in your own backyard, so that you have no need to anywhere to watch the birds.

One of the best things about birding is that you are able to only spend as much on it as you want and only put into it whatever you like. It really is down to you as the main aim is to enjoy the birds and your enjoyment will drive your commitment to any level you want. And this is also one of the easiest hobbies to enjoy on your own.

Many of us like to do stuff in the peace and quiet of just our own company and birding really lends itself to this. On the other hand if you prefer group participation you can bird with your friends or partner, or even join a birding group, which can also provide you with help and experience to increase your knowledge of the birds and bird watching in general.

So if you are interested in becoming a birder then all you need to do to start is to buy yourself a pair of binoculars, which do not need to be expensive. Then just pick a location for a birding expedition and go there and look for the birds. What could be easier?

It should be easy to find a woodland area, a park, a nice trail or even a local nature preserve somewhere in your area which would be suitable. When you get there just find a location where you can view the birds easily with your binoculars and before long birds will start to appear. Just keep still for a while and allow the birds to get nearer. If you move around a lot this may scare the birds away and you will not see very many.

On subsequent birding trips take a notebook with you to note down descriptions of the birds you see and you can start to build up a portfolio of the birds you recognize and those that you don't. Next you should invest in a bird guide for your local area, so that you have a reference to identify the birds you see. It's always best to get a field guide so that you can take it with you to identify birds while you are out birding.

Once you have started birding and maybe even before you start it is a good idea to get a Birding For Beginners guide, as this will provide you with even more information on how to start bird watching. And then before you know it you will become an avid bird watcher and you will get more and more enjoyment from the birds that you see!

Buy Binoculars For the Ultimate Bird Watching Experience

Bird watching is a very enjoyable past time - one that is enjoyed by people all around the world. Most bird watching enthusiasts do not watch birds for academic or scientific reasons; they track down different species of birds for the sheer enjoyment of it. These days, there are even organizations or clubs that are devoted to the hobby where like-minded individuals can gather to share their bird watching experiences with each other.

Get A Better View With Bird Watching Binoculars

Many people enjoy spotting birds with the naked eye but, in some instances, this can be very difficult and a good pair of bird watching binoculars can come in handy. With a pair of binoculars you can take your time to study the birds up close without scaring them away.

There are many types of binoculars that are available for bird watching. It is best to buy a pair of bird watching binoculars that are not too heavy as to weigh you down while bird watching. Carrying around a large, heavy pair of binoculars while pursuing your hobby can be quite tiring. A good pair of binoculars will not only enlarge your view of the birds but it will also add illumination when the light is poor. It is also advantageous to purchase binoculars that provide a wide view of the birds. This will make it easier to study birds in flight.

Why Is Focus Important?

The right focus on a pair of binoculars can increase the overall experience of bird watching on any excursion or in your own backyard. The binoculars should also have an easy to use focus mechanism because birds move fast and the time to focus might be fleeting.

Your binoculars should not alter the color of the bird or the bird's surroundings. You want a pair of bird watching binoculars that provides you with the most realistic view of these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat. If the colors are distorted or enhanced then it can make identification quite difficult. Imagine looking up a bird with a purple stripe on its wing in a bird book only to realize afterwards that the stripe was, in fact, a dark blue stripe. You'd be wasting your time, wouldn't you?

Bird Watching Binocular Brands

Although bird watching binoculars can vary quite considerably in price, you should have no trouble picking up a decent pair whatever your budget. There are various companies that produce excellent binoculars. Two such companies are Swarovski and Nikon. Nikon offer some of the best options on the market. They provide superb illumination in situations where the light is poor, such as dusk or dawn, which might be the best time to go bird watching. This is because birds are usually most active during these times of day. Nikon bird watching binoculars also contain strong lenses that offer fantastic magnification and the focus mechanisms are very user friendly and adaptable.

Swarovski manufacture terrific, excellent quality, easy to use bird watching binoculars, although they tend to be quite expensive. They too provide great illumination when the light is bad. Another great advantage of this brand is that the color of the birds that you spot will not be distorted or altered in any way - the colors you see are exactly as they are in nature. The Swarovski focusing mechanisms are outstanding. You will be able to focus on a bird in full flight quickly, without difficulty. Most models of Swarovski binoculars are very light so they are perfect for any bird watching trip.

Shop around before choosing the pair of bird watching binoculars that suits you; there is no need to spend a small fortune. Just ensure that find a pair that is comfortable in your hands and will not hinder your enjoyment of this most pleasurable hobby.

William Scott is the author of several bird watching articles. His website http://BirdWatchingAdvice.com offers further insights into choosing the best bird watching binoculars.

Outdoor Leisure Activities for Seniors

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Bird Watching Vacation - Make Costa Rica Your Next Destination

Costa Rica is attracting more and more bird watchers to it's beautiful and delightful landscapes because of it's diverse array of bird species that make this area home during different times of the year. There are well over eight hundred species in this small country, which makes it more abundant than that of the United States and Canada combined. Many people wouldn't even consider bird watching anywhere else. It is for this reason, among many others, that you may want to make Costa Rica your next stop for a bird watching vacation.

Even though it is a very small country, enjoying a bird watching vacation in Costa Rica offers many benefits. Each year sees a greater number of tourists head there to bird watch and to learn more details about the different species of birds. The clay-colored robin is Costa Rica's national bird. As a bird watching vacation destination, it is perfect.

Bird Watching Paradise

There are many reasons that have blessed Costa Rica with being a bird watching paradise. One of those reasons is that there is a great diversity of habitats for the birds to live in. The Pacific Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other side offer habit for many sea and migratory birds. The rain and cloud forest habitats offer many different species homes. And, the many areas around lakes and rivers offer even more habitat for other species, too. Another reason that this little jewel of a country is a bird watching paradise is that the various habitats are very close together.

Also, over a quarter of Costa Rica is designated as protected forests, reserves and parkland which are excellent for bird watching so wherever one is in Costa Rica, the varied species of birds available to view will make this an ideal location for a bird watching vacation.

Migratory Birds

The winter months are very popular for North Americans to visit Costa Rica. During this time they can see familiar birds because many migrating birds from North America make this home at this time of year. Some of those species are hummingbirds, swallows, teals and sandpipers.

Even in the towns and cities the quantity of bird species that one can see is incredible. You may see a macaw, blue-crowned motmot or a buff-throated saltator in the trees and gardens in and around the hotels and homes of each of the towns and cities that you visit, in addition to many other birds that make their homes in them, too.

However, for the bird watching vacation to be the best that it can be a trip to Tortuguero National Park is in order. This is a National Park within the Tortuguero Conservation Area. It has over 370 species of birds including kingfishers, toucans, blue herons, peacocks, and parrots, as well as more than 400 species of trees and approximately 2,200 species of plants for one to see. In spite of the fact that the only be way to reach it is by airplane or boat, it's the third-most visited park in Costa Rica.

Interested in learning more about birds and birdwatching? Visit http://www.about-birds.info/ an instructive website that provides birdwatcher advice, tips and resources including information on birdwatching binoculars, clothing, tours and equipment for beginners to experienced birdwatchers.

The latest bird-watching equipment, beyond binoculars

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Toothy bird had a record-breaking 17ft wingspan

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Adventure of the week - Flock to the Rock

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Brunton Echo 10-30x21 Zoom Monocular

Brunton 10 - 30x21 mm Zoom Monocular. Pocket-size performance! James Bond approved as one of the smallest zoom units on the planet! Multi-coated lens for distortion-free clarity; Top-grade BaK-4 prism glass; F.O.V @ 1,000 yds. is 178' at 10X, 110' at 30X; Tripod compatible; Fold-down eyecup; 12 mm eye relief; Includes lanyard and case. ; 4 1/4 x 1 1/4", weighs 3 ozs. ; Nab yours today! Brunton Zoom Monocular

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Messina 35.2oz Deer Stopper RTU w/ pt Concentrate Refill

Messina Wildlife Management Deer Stopper, 35.2 ounces ready-to-use, with one pint concentrate refill. Messina Wildlife's all natural deer repellent is a highly effective formula for preventing axis, elk, moose and other deer damage on all shrubs, flowers, edible crops, forest and fruit trees. It works by smell and taste and will not wash off after a heavy rain. Lasts for approximately 30 days. Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) listed. Endorsed by the National Home Gardening Club. This web-exclusive pack comes with one ready-to-use Deer Stopper spray and one pint concentrate refill.

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The Young Birder's Guide: A Bird Book for the Middle Schooler [Greg Laden's Blog]

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Bird Watching for Beginners

Bird watching has become a sport that has been around for many years. Also known as "birding" people of many ages enjoy one of the fastest growing hobbies in America. People of all ages enjoy searching for birds in their region, watching them in their natural habitat and enjoying listening to the different songs. As fascinating as they are birds can reveal many things about nature and the beauty surrounding them.

The sights and sounds of nature are very familiar to the keen eyes and ears of a bird watcher. By catching a one-second glimpse of a bird darting through the woods along with a musical note sounding like only a "chirp" a bird watcher can tell you the general species of the bird and even narrow it down to the exact bird.

With over 900 + species of birds found in the United States, birders must quickly be able to distinguish birds by analyzing a lot of information such as call notes, color patterns, and the shape of their wings and bills. It takes an observant person to see a strange bird and analyze how the bird moves, flies and reacts in its environment. Many months of hard work is what it takes for a beginner bird watcher to grasp the techniques and be able to distinguish one bird from the next. Like learning an instrument, patience is the key and most important of all being able to enjoy the scenery and beauty of bird watching.

Why are so many people fascinated with birds even to the point of spending long hours watching them? Birds have long delighted people all over the world because of their beauty and power of flight. There are thousands of species all unique, mysterious and beautiful to the human eye. Historically, the Romans believed the flight and calls of birds could foretell the future. Today modern science uses birds and changes in their health and population as warnings of problems in their environment.

Watching birds helps people understand the fascination of how they relate to nature. We watch birds with interest party because of how accessible they are. Wherever we go they are there, and we share the environment with birds more than any other creature except insects. One reason people are compelled to watch birds is because of how amazingly different they are from one area to the next. You may find the same species of birds from one country to the next but notice they are entirely different in looks and the way they interact with the environment.

As mentioned before birds are amazing creatures. Be sure to give bird watching a try and give yourself a chance to enjoy the beauty of birds in the wild and the peace that comes with exploring nature.

Louis Dale a informational product writer enjoys providing quality information on a wide variety of topics. His latest quality bird feeder website provides in depth quality information about birds and how to chose the right feeders for bird watching.

Crosby Arboretum announces "Introduction to Birdwatching" Saturday

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Bird Watching in Uganda

One of the best places on earth that has a huge collection of animals is Africa. This is because of the terrain that includes rich savannahs, deserts, rain forests, wetlands and a lot more. This makes it an ideal place to be close nature and if you love birds, why don’t you go on a bird watching in Uganda.

Uganda is just one of more than 20 countries that are part of the African continent. It occupies a land area of 235,000 square kilometers which has more than 1008 species of birds. This figure represents more than half of the type of bird species found in Africa making it the best place to be should you desire to go on a bird watching vacation.

There are a lot of places to go bird watching in Uganda. You can take your pick from over 700 forest reserves.

One example is the Albertine Rift Endemic Area that boasts to have 38 species of birds. The birds here can also be seen in Burundi, Congo and Rwanda. Because the government wants to protect these animals, they have setup 24 similar areas that are located in the forests of Mgahinga and Bwindi National Park in the southwest.

Apart from the forests, there are also the wetlands. Uganda has 30,000 square kilometers of wetlands and not less than 210 bird species are present at all times. You might to see the Shoebill, the African Skimmer, the Papyrus Gonolek, White Winged Warbler or the White Winged Black Tern.

Of the many national parks in Uganda, the most famous are Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Bwindi Impenetrable, Semuliki and Kibale.

The Queen Elizabeth National park has one of the highest biodiversity ratings of any game reserve in the world. Aside from the 606 bird species that roam this are, you can also se 100 mammal species.

Murchison Fall National Park is situated by the Murchison Waterfalls nearby. The wildlife in this area has drastically improved from the poaching done during the 1980’s so you are sure to see several species of birds, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and antelopes.

The Bwidi Impenetrable National Park is home to 90 mammal species which includes 11 primates. There are about 23 bird species which still ranks among the highest in Uganda.

Semuluki National Park is one of the newest in Uganda. It lies on the border with Congo. Because of the changes that happened during the Pleistocene era, it is very ideal for both floral and fauna to grow.

Kibale National Park is considered to be the most accessible in Uganda. You will get to see various species of birds here and along the way you might get the chance to take pictures of one out of 13 primate species that inhabit this region.

You can camp out in each of these places or stay in a small hotel or camp ground so you can head out looking for birds early in the morning and get back before it gets dark.

The parks are open all year round. All you have to do is book a flight and accommodations, pack your gear and then arrive at Uganda. Don’t forget to bring your camera and download the list of bird species found here so you can easily identify what you see when you get close to them.

Bird Watching Scopes - Find Out More with Clearer Vision

For a person who loves observing the birds, a scope would be very beneficial especially if you've already mastered the use of binoculars and is now ready to take the activity to another level.

The Binoculars

This is the first gadget that is actually being invested upon by the bird watchers and the birders. They look closely into the product to determine what could best work for them. This becomes more of their best friend as time goes by. This actually serves the purpose of seeing the birds more clearly.

The accessories for such also become varied through time. The comfort of the user is considered with the weight, eye cups, different lenses and corresponding elements that could make the work easier for its user.

Spotting Scopes

For the birders, it is important to be at the right place at the right time. They are always on the lookout for something new. They want to add on to what they already knew. And the most important thing is that they want to strengthen their claims and prove their observations as gearing towards the scientific explanation.

Knowing where exactly to go is developed through time. The expertise in anything you do in life is actually honed by practice. The same thing is true for birders. They have the passion for what they do. They have tried and tested different techniques through time to be able to gather more data.

Although these people still rely on the old binoculars, they also invest on spotting scopes. This tool helps them to see more from what they've already seen through their binoculars. Because they have the passion for the activity and they have a reason for doing such, they are more geared to look for better technology to help then with their research.

Choosing the right spotting scope is important. As a beginner, you need to ask around what brand is more popular and why. And you also need to be informed about what are the things that you should be looking for when purchasing one.

The quality and design should be your first concern when looking for the right one. Ask about the lenses and the optics design. You need to have the most clear and the one that feels appropriate for your eyes because as a birder, you are looking for more data about the birds that you are observing. You are always on the lookout to find out more from what data is already available. So the view that you would get from scopes is vital for your study to be more scientific.

The spotting scopes works best with a tripod. Look for one that is sturdy and easy to control. It should hold up your scope the right way, can navigate through all the directions and can also be slanted on different angles.

Then focus more about the lenses. You need to find the ones that could stand all weather conditions. As a birder, you go to different places not really minding the climate on that weather but only have the birds in your mind as top priority. For this reason, you need to have the lenses that could guide you through the process easily and won't let you down even at most desperate weather conditions.

Bird watching scopes are there to help you. You just have to find that right one that could suit you best in order to start using such to your advantage.

101 things you need to do in Delaware before you die - no matter where you live

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Migrating birds cause a stir at San Rafael brickyard

Micah Johnson wrote - "Birding connects us to the natural world and fills one with a sense of awe and wonder. Try it, you'll like it. You might feel better about yourself."

Yes Indeed. A group of us go birding every fall. There is nothing like waking up before dawn, having a hearty breakfast, loading some gear into the vehicles and all heading to a good birding area.

The crisp cool fall air, some low lying fog entwined in the tules, and patches of fog out over the water dancing with the first rays of sunlight.

You just get settled in with a mug of coffee or hot chocolate and then suddenly someone says they see a flock of birds in the distance and you wait in anticipation and then - right there in front of you over the decoys you see them - a big beautiful flock of mallards! You quickly rise and take a bead on one and then another squeezing the trigger on your well used 12 gauge and BOOM - BOOM - BOOM and you hear the guns of the other birders with you BOOM, BOOM - BOOM, BOOM, BOOM and then you see some birds laying in the water, while the rest fly away.

After all?s quiet again, the black lab who's been held back on the leash is released, and with a flying leap which would make a Calaveras jumping frog envious, clears the reeds in front of the blind and lands in the water with a splash and paddles at full speed to the first bird.

Carefully he takes the first duck in his mouth so as not to damage it and proudly retrieves it back to the hunters in the blind. Then, again and again he deftly repeats this ballet until all the downed ducks are retrieved.

Then suddenly a hushed warning is heard by all as the hunter on point spots another flock far off in the early morning light and everyone scans the horizon for a sign AND THEN QUICKLY THEY'RE UPON US AND BOOM - BOOM - BOOM - BOOM - BOOM is heard again in the cool morning calm and more birds splash into the water. And the ballet begins again with the black lab.

Later in the morning as we pack our gear, police the area for any trash to be carried out, and gather the ducks we harvested, we talk about the days birding and how grateful we all are for our morning with nature, and birding and an all-American pastime that's as good the last time as the first, and we give thanks to the good Lord for our bounty and good fortune, and pray God shines upon these wonderful waterfowl and their beautiful habitat.

Yes, birding is truly a delight to the senses and gives one a true appreciation of nature.

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Birding - The Technical Name For Bird Watching As A Serious Birder

For a person who cares about nature and the natural world, you probably like to spend time out in parks and other nature areas. One of those activities that you may partake in while out in nature is birding, the technical name for bird watching. When you spend time in these areas, nature probably feels closer to your heart and soul. By being in these areas birding, you are sure to learn more about the birds and their habitats. In addition to it being an educational experience, you are sure to enjoy time just watching the birds go about their day.

Birding has been a growing hobby for many people throughout the world. Many enthusiastic nature lovers spend much time on weekends and holidays watching and photographing the different birds that they come across on their excursions. Birding many be the technical name for bird watching, but most people just enjoy watching the birds in their habitats, whatever it is called. It is just enjoyable to spend time observing the many birds.

Bird Watching Or Birding

Bird watching, or birding, is observing and studying the different bird species by either the naked eye or with the help of binoculars or scopes. The scientists who study bird watching as a profession are called ornithologists. Birders or bird watchers usually are either casual or dedicated about this hobby and engage in it for personal interest and often to spend time with others who are interested in this endeavor, too.

Birders often try to distinguish themselves from bird watchers as being more dedicated to this hobby and knowledgeable about the different bird species. Some of the things that birders are more knowledgeable about are the small details of the bird's habitats, migration patterns, breeding habits and physical appearance. As well, many serious birders will often travel great distances to see the birds. Bird watchers on the other hand usually watch the birds closer to home in nearby parks or even their backyards.

Groups To Join

If you find that you are intrigued by learning more about bird watching as a hobby, you may want to go out with a few different bird watching groups. There are many groups and clubs around the world that are focused on birds and there is probably a local or national group nearby to you. In addition to meeting other people who share your interest, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the many bird species and their various differences. In addition, you will learn about what equipment will enhance your experience and find out about the different birding competitions that are held in different locations.

In Canada and the United States you may like to attend a National Audubon Society outing to watch the birds and meet some new friends. If you are in the British Isles you may want to check out the British Trust for Ornithology or Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to learn more about birds and birding. As well, on a global scale, you may be interested in learning more about or joining BirdLife International which operates in over one hundred countries and territories throughout the world. It is a is an alliance of nature groups that works towards conserving birds, their habitats and biodiversity all over Earth, and working with humans for a sustainable use of the environment.

Interested in learning more about birds and birdwatching? Visit http://www.greatbirdwatchingtoday.com an instructive website that provides birdwatcher advice, tips and resources including information on birdwatching binoculars, clothing, tours and equipment.

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Memory bares secret

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Bird Watching For Elderly People - Helping To Keep You Young At Heart

There are a vast number of people who are wild about their bird watching hobby. Bird watching for elderly people is a great hobby to get involved in because it is a rewarding and relaxing pursuit. It is a well liked activity by many elderly people. Bird watching for elderly people does not require a great deal of energy to be spent hiking around many different terrains throughout the world. In fact, bird watching for elderly people is often best enjoyed right in your own backyard. In the backyards of friends and bird watching group members could also be a locale for bird watching for elderly people.

Making New Friends

Bird watching for elderly people is one of those hobbies that can be a way to enjoy the company of others. In most cities and towns you will find quite a few other bird watching enthusiasts. A wonderful way to get introduced to others in the area who are also elderly people is to take up bird watching. As a member of one of these groups you can help to plan outings which are suitable for the different people in the group based on interests and abilities. There will be some who will want to stay close to home to bird watch. And those with a little more energy and desire to bird watch farther away can do so, too.

Bird Watching For Elderly People Brightens One's Day

The various bird species provide wonderful sights and sounds for elderly people to enjoy while bird watching. All the different birds are beautiful in their own way and the sounds that they make are very enjoyable to listen to. For elderly people wanting to stay closer to home to bird watch, considering a garden which is designed to attract birds would be a good idea. A water feature, such as a bird bath, will help to attract birds to your yard. Throughout the day birds are hunting for food and will fly to the areas that provide them with food to eat. Putting up a couple of different types of bird feeders will help to attract many species of birds. As well, bringing birds to your yard will be greatly enhanced by having different types of trees and shrubs.

Bird watching for elderly people can often be enjoyed in the comfort of one's own backyard by making it an inviting space for the birds. Getting your binoculars, journal, guide book and a cup of coffee out while sitting in your comfortable lounge chair is a great way to enjoy bird watching. You may even find other bird watchers knocking on your door to bird watch with you once they discover that you have made a very inviting place for the birds to enjoy and live.

Interested in learning more about birds and birdwatching? Visit http://www.about-birds.info an instructive website that provides birdwatcher advice, tips and resources including information on birdwatching binoculars, clothing, tours and equipment for birdwatchers.

Bird Watching Links

You can see birds on television documentaries and in magazines. Now that we live in the digital age, you can also find these online as there are people who have posted bird watching links.

Bird watching links allows hobbyists to see birds from different parts of the world and at the same time submit photographs of what they have seen. Some of these sites are run by colleges and universities which use the information they gather for research purposes. You can even download the images and add these to your collection.

If you are new to this hobby and have no idea of the bird you just saw, you can post a question by describing it and get an answer shortly.

Another side of bird watching links allows people to participate in conversations. This sharing of information makes everyone more knowledgeable about the kinds of birds that can be found where they reside. If the people live close to each other, they can even plan a bird watching trip together.

You may also encounter some bird watching blogs that you can post a reply or comments to if you agree with the topic or disagree on what was said by the other person.

The links may also be used by local chapters and conservation groups to hold conferences, seminars and other events to create an awareness of birds that are endangered or provide better ways and techniques when it comes to bird watching.

Some travel agencies have also used as an outlet to invite bird watchers to come visit them so they can see the species of birds that are only found in their country.

To give you an idea of some of the bird watching links, you can check out www.audobon.org, www.birding.com and www.birdingguide.com. There are hundreds of them on the web and they will show pictures and information about birds like what kind of food they eat and where is their natural habitat.

If you don’t like the stuff being sold in sporting goods store, you can even buy some of these items online and have this delivered to your home. You can buy it brand new or second hand and even auction for these items as there are people who are willing to get rid of their old stuff.

Because of the many bird watching links, you don’t need to buy books anymore when the information here is constantly updated that happens to be much faster than publishing a new book. Chances are, when you go to one website, you will be invited to visit another by simply clicking on it.

As long as people are into bird watching, the number of links will continue to increase. You can expect to see the same picture or information in some but if you look hard enough, there is always something new to learn about our feathered friends.

If you don’t know where to start, type in a keyword in the search engine like “bird watching” or “bird watching conservation groups.” In a few seconds, a list will appear right in front of your screen then it is up to you to check each one and bookmark those that you would like to visit again in the future.

If you discovered something new, don’t be shy to share it because others have done the same in the past which has benefited you.

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Bird Watching - How to Get Started Fast and Easily

If you love nature and birds, then you can certainly combine both to enter into the colorful realm of bird watching. You may easily become a devoted bird watcher so that you can enjoy yourself while pursuing your new hobby.

Bird watching calls for patience, a willingness to learn, and some items of equipment that aren't very costly. You must however, learn the basic requirements of bird watching so as to silently watch birds in their natural habitat without bothering or distracting them. Birds usually are nervous creatures and will definitely take flight at the tiniest of sound or motion. You will consequently need to learn to remain extremely still, particularly when birds come in view.

You can easily start your new bird watching hobby by simply observing birds in your own garden or backyard. This should help you to master the fundamentals very easily before you go on to more intense watching. If there are hardly any birds venturing into your backyard or garden you'll be able to attract them to visit frequently or even stay in your backyard simply by setting up a birdbath, a birdhouse or possibly a nest in a tree to attract their attention. You will soon be rewarded with a variety of birds flocking into your backyard which you'll be able to watch at your leisure.

You will also need the proper bird watching gear to watch and recognize the birds that drop in to explore your backyard. A pair of powerful binoculars, a guide book to identify birds according to your physical location, a discreet place in your home or yard where you are able to watch them without spooking them and a well-stocked grocery shelf having lots to eat and drink will help you to settle down quickly in your bird watching project.

You can also buy a powerful digital camera in case your budget allows. You ought to in any case keep a notepad to write down the kinds of birds that have visited your property along with the time and date of such visits. This will help establish a pattern for future reference. This can also enable you to watch their routines and also keep track of young birds that will literally mature before your very eyes as time passes.

You can also involve other family members such as your spouse, brothers and sisters or kids as part of your bird watching sessions so they too learn to respect these tiny creatures even while getting to know a great deal about them. As soon as you feel confident enough to venture out, you'll be able to explore nearby woods with all your equipment in tow, especially with ample water and food. You will also need to carry anti-mosquito netting or repellent and a first-aid kit when you're in the woods. On the other hand, you can link up with a club and venture out together with other avid bird watchers to collectively experience your new passion while also learning a lot from expert watchers.

Bird watching is an excellent way to connect with nature and study the lives of birds in an inexpensive way. Always remember never to disturb the birds in any way and to stay as discreet as you possibly can. Over time, you're sure to discover a lot about birds while also stimulating others to join you in this terrific hobby.

Craig Bennett is a freelance copywriter and former college instructor in Business Administration. He created Money Talk Daily as a resource for individuals and families in these difficult economic times.

He also enjoys writing on other topics at sites like Wild Bird Haven.

Bird Watching Gifts - Holiday Gift Ideas

Bird watching is one of the fastest growing interests in the world. If you're buying for a bird watcher, here's a primer on ideas for bird watching gifts.

Bird Watching Gifts

Bird watching may seem the simplest of tasks. In truth, there are lots of gadgets, which gives you an opportunity to find great bird watching gifts

1. Binocular Pack Straps - Where you find bird watchers, you'll find binoculars. Binoculars are the staple equipment item of all birders. The problem, however, is binoculars have a habit of flopping around your body when walking and putting a strain on your neck. Any bird watcher would love to find a solution and binocular pack straps are the answer. They look like backpack straps and snuggly hold binoculars to your body while you walk. Brunton is a great brand and you can expect to pay $30 or so.

2. The Birder's Handbook - The Birder's Handbook is a great companion piece for any birder. Over 600 species are covered and all can be found in North America. This book is an excellent list for bird watching enthusiasts to compare their life lists against. The list price of the book is $20.00 and you can find it at any only bookstore.

3. Bird Cams - If backyard bird watching is the primary bird watching activity of the person your giving gifts to, bird cams are great gifts. The bird cam sits inside of the bird house and lets birders see the birds in action. A fascinating view of a bird's life. Night-Owl and NovaBird make solid cams. You can expect to pay $80 to $300 for a solid cam.

4. Nomad Bird Watching Journals - A little self-promotion. Nomad Bird Watching Journals are great gifts for bird watching enthusiast. Whether they enjoy bird watching tours, backyard birding or bird watching vacations, these journals let bird watchers keep track of sightings, conditions, locations, people met and impressions of the birding experience. A great Christmas gift, you can see the journal by clicking the link in the byline of this article and expect to pay $25 for the journal with case.

Bird watching is sweeping the world. Now you know what to buy bird watching enthusiasts for the holidays.

Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com makers of diary and writing journals for bird watching. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more articles on bird watching and the great outdoors.