Looking out of the window as I write this blog post I can see the snowdrops in flower, and over the last few weeks I’ve also noticed more birds singing- spring is on the way! For any interested in learning birdsongs and calls (myself included) then now is the best time to try and start learning. At the moment it’s easier to pick out the fewer species that have started to sing- and, as more birds start to join in with nature’s orchestra I hope that I can slowly add their sounds too alongside those I can recognise. The other benefit of starting now is there are fewer leaves on the trees, making it easier to see and identify the bird you’re listening to.
Photo by Lynne Newton - young sedge warbler
I have an audio CD to try and help with learning bird songs and calls, which first gives me something to listen for when I’m next out, and second gives me a reference to come back to after having heard a bird initially outside. However, nothing can truly beat the field experience for matching sight and sound of each bird species first hand, and it’s this experience and knowledge which becomes most relevant too!!! But if you're still not sure do visit the RSPB Bird Guide where you can listen to songs and calls online.