bird-watching

A person uses binoculars for bird-watching in a forest.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The activity of observing wild birds in their natural habitat: "bird-watching" is a recreational or scientific pursuit involving the identification and study of birds in the wild, typically using binoculars or a field guide.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She spends every weekend engaged in bird-watching in the local wetlands. (She observes and identifies birds for pleasure.)
  • Bird-watching has become a popular hobby among retirees who enjoy nature. (The activity of watching birds is a common pastime.)
  • He bought a new pair of binoculars for his bird-watching trips. (Equipment used specifically for the activity of observing birds.)

Advanced Usage

• "to go bird-watching": to participate in the activity of observing birds.

  • We plan to go bird-watching early tomorrow morning. (We intend to engage in the hobby of watching birds.)

• "bird-watching spot": a location known for its abundance or variety of birds.

  • The reserve is a famous bird-watching spot for migratory species. (A place where bird-watching is particularly rewarding.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bird-watcher (n): a person who engages in bird-watching.

  • The bird-watcher recorded over fifty species in one day. (Someone who observes birds as a hobby or profession.)

• Birdwatch (v, less common): to engage in bird-watching.

  • They like to birdwatch in the park every Sunday. (To observe birds as a recreational activity.)

Synonyms

• Birding: a more informal or enthusiast term for bird-watching.
  • He is an avid birder who travels worldwide. (Synonymous with bird-watching, often used by dedicated hobbyists.)
• Ornithology (n): the scientific study of birds, which may include bird-watching as a method.
  • Ornithology is the formal study, while bird-watching is often recreational. (A related but more academic field.)

Related Idioms

• "Watch the birds": a simple expression for observing birds, often used in a general sense.
  • Let's sit on the porch and watch the birds. (A casual way to say bird-watching.)
• "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush": a proverb about valuing what you have, not directly related to bird-watching but using bird imagery.
  • He chose the certain reward over a risky venture, remembering that a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. (Not specific to bird-watching but a common idiom mentioning birds.)