The Art of Identifying Birds by Their Songs
Learning the language of birdsong is easier than you think
Dawn
That magical part of the day when the night is folded up and put away, the sky blooms in pinks and golds and the birds begin their day with song. You may or may not be awake for the dawn chorus of dozens of species of birds, but at some point in your day, certainly, you have the opportunity to hear birds singing. Wouldn’t it be nice to know who is singing some of those songs?
Learning bird songs is rewarding, and not so difficult. Anyone can learn to identify at least a few of the birds that are singing right outside their door. As you hone your ability to discern subtle differences in songs, you will realize that you have mastered the art of paying attention—that is really where the effort lies.
When you can identify birds by their song, it’s called “birding by ear.” Using a few simple techniques, you can begin to recognize some of the birds you hear on a daily basis in your own neighborhood.
If you have learned to identify some songs by using words that approximate the song, you have developed the art of paying attention.
