If you’re a birder, you want to keep a list of sightings when you bird watch. Your life lists should be kept in a bird watching journal.

Life List

A life list is a record of the species of birds you’ve sighted over time. Typically, the list is kept in a journal. Each entry notes the bird species, the date, location and any notes you want to add. Depending on your particular bird watching exploits, you can keep one global list or separate lists as you see fit.

For many bird watchers, one life list simply isn’t enough. So, how can you break down your lists? Here are a few ideas:

1. House Lists – A list of birds sighted around your home.

2. Yearly Lists – A list for each year you bird watch.

3. State Lists – A list for sighting by particular state.

4. Trip Lists – Journals for particular bird watching vacations or tours.

5. Wish Lists – A list of birds you haven’t seen, but hope to. You simply cross them off as sightings occur.

Computer Life Lists

You can purchase computer life list programs or use online variations. Each program is different, but most come in a checklist format. You enter information and the program spits out your list.

The problem with using computer programs is…well, the computer aspect. Unless you are willing to lug a laptop around with you, there is going to be a delay between sightings and your journal entries. Using a computer program is also troublesome if you want to keep a collection of sketches of particular species you’ve identified. For most birders, a computer list is a supplement to a good journal, not a replacement.

Bird watching is an extremely personal passion. If you’re just starting, you may think you don’t need to keep a life list. The problem with this approach, of course, is you will regret the decision if you later decide to do so. All those sightings will be gone with time…

If you’re going to start bird watching, make sure you keep a life list journal from the outset. As I like to say, “Preserve the experience!”

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.

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What is bird ecology and conservation and why is it so important? Ecology is the study of animals and how they relate to their environment. Bird conservation is the study and science relating to birds that are threatened by the dwindling of natural resources. It is a way to try and conserve these birds and prevent them from dying off.

Therefore, bird ecology and conservation would be the science that revolves around the bird population and the environment. Scientists have learned that the human race has made quite an impact on the birds in the world. In fact, some have already become extinct or on the verge of extinction due to the impact humanity has made on the earth. The study of bird ecology and conservation can help to find ways to undo some of the damage that has been done or at the very least help to prevent more harm from being done.

Humanity is not the only thing that affects birds and their environment. Other animals that are natural predators play a big role in how birds of all kinds impact the earth. The change in the weather even has an effect on the bird population and their habitats.

The study of bird ecology and conservation has taught scientists how the natural order of things should be when it comes to their habitat and food source. They have learned their mating habits and migration routes which play a huge part in the natural order of things. Scientists will know when things have been thrown off-balance and with further studies can determine how this will shape the world a few years into the future.

Birds follow a certain behavior pattern that could have a big impact on the earth if it were to be drastically changed. This happens when a species becomes extinct or when the weather changes dramatically causing confusion among the birds. They aren’t sure when to migrate, mate or do any of their natural functions when nature is out of whack. This in turn has an impact on everything else including society.

Bird ecology and conservation studies are essential to the health and well-being of the bird species. The way they eat, live, mate and even take care of their young will affect the world in some way. Therefore, it is important to study them and learn how they are related to the environment. This is the only chance of protecting and conserving the natural order of things to help enhance the quality of life for the future generations to enjoy.

Peter Bankss
To Know more about Bird Ecology and Conservation and to Get a Free Report on How To Save Our Planet.