What we use

 When you go birding all you really need is a small bird book and a pair of binoculars. That is all Terry and I used for years and we had great fun.---- He bought me a pair of binoculars a couple of years ago and they are the best that I have ever had. They fit my face perfectly and I can easily focus in on what I want to see. They are a pair of Rare Bird by Tasco 9x25mm binoculars. They were through the National Audubon Society and he found a really good deal (of course).---
     Terry uses a pair of Bushnell 10x50 wide angle binoculars and really likes them. I have a harder time getting things focused for me and they are much wider than mine soI can't get them close enough to have good viewing.--- For the longest time the only bird book we had was the American Bird Conservancy's Field Guide All the Birds of North America. It is a great book and one that we always take out in the field. I know it so well that I can quickly turn to what I am looking at or the general vicinity of the type of bird.--- Since we have gotten a little more serious about our birding we have also picked up The Sibley Guide to Birds and the National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America. They have both been able to help us narrow down and fine tune our bird watching. It has also been really nice to see the different variations and information in the books, it is has given us a greater understanding of the birding world.--- Terry also bought me a scope that we have a lot of fun with. It is an Eagle Optics and is very easy for both of us to use. We are looking forward to fine tuning our use of it and are hoping to start taking some pictures soon.--- When we go out just walking around Terry takes along his tripod. He was able to get a binocular mount and attach them right to it. He loves it and it helps to diminish some of his neck pain when we are out for a while.--- We also have various CD's and tapes to help us learn bird song and some programs that test you visually and aurally. I have a lot of fun with those. One program even helped us identify a bird after the fact.---  In the end all you really need is a little bit of time, a small bird book, a pair of binoculars and a little sense of adventure. Go out there and have some fun!!!!