Birding: meaning, definitions and examples

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birding

 

[ ˈbɜːrdɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

hobby

Birding is the activity of observing and identifying birds in their natural habitats. It involves using binoculars, field guides, and bird calls to help with identification.

Synonyms

bird-spotting, birdwatching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
birding

This is a more technical term used by enthusiasts and professionals who engage in observing and studying birds as a serious hobby or scientific pursuit.

  • She spent the weekend birding in the national park.
  • Birding often requires patience and a good pair of binoculars.
birdwatching

A widely used term that fits both casual and more dedicated observers. It involves watching birds in their natural habitats, often for enjoyment but can also be scientific.

  • Birdwatching is a popular activity among nature lovers.
  • They joined a birdwatching club to learn more about different species.
bird-spotting

This term is often used by beginners or casual enthusiasts who take joy in simply spotting birds without deep involvement in the scientific aspects.

  • We went bird-spotting with the kids in the local woods.
  • Bird-spotting is a fun and relaxing way to connect with nature.

Examples of usage

  • I enjoy birding in the local park every weekend.
  • Many birding enthusiasts travel to different countries to spot rare bird species.
Context #2 | Noun

ornithology

Birding can also refer to the scientific study of birds, their behavior, ecology, and distribution. Ornithologists often engage in birding to gather data for research purposes.

Synonyms

bird study, bird-watching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
birding

Commonly used in informal contexts to describe the activity of observing birds in their natural habitat. It’s often used by enthusiasts to explain their hobby.

  • We spent the weekend birding in the local wetlands.
  • Birding is a relaxing way to connect with nature.
bird-watching

A term that's widely understood and used both formally and informally to describe the activity of observing birds, often enjoyed by amateurs and enthusiasts.

  • Bird-watching is a popular weekend activity for many people.
  • He carried a notebook and a field guide for his bird-watching trip.
bird study

Typically used in more formal or academic contexts to refer to the scientific study of birds, including their behavior, physiology, and habitats.

  • She dedicated her career to bird study and published numerous papers on avian migration.
  • Bird study requires a deep understanding of ornithology.

Examples of usage

  • The university offers a course on birding and ornithology.
  • Professional birders contribute valuable information to conservation efforts.

Translations

Translations of the word "birding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 observação de aves

🇮🇳 पक्षी अवलोकन

🇩🇪 Vogelbeobachtung

🇮🇩 pengamatan burung

🇺🇦 спостереження за птахами

🇵🇱 obserwacja ptaków

🇯🇵 バードウォッチング

🇫🇷 observation des oiseaux

🇪🇸 observación de aves

🇹🇷 kuş gözlemciliği

🇰🇷 조류 관찰

🇸🇦 مراقبة الطيور

🇨🇿 pozorování ptáků

🇸🇰 pozorovanie vtákov

🇨🇳 观鸟

🇸🇮 opazovanje ptic

🇮🇸 fuglaskoðun

🇰🇿 құстарды бақылау

🇬🇪 ჩიტების დაკვირვება

🇦🇿 quş müşahidəsi

🇲🇽 observación de aves

Etymology

The term 'birding' originated in the 20th century as a shortened form of 'bird-watching'. It gained popularity among nature enthusiasts and scientists alike. The hobby of birding has evolved over the years with the development of technology and conservation efforts to protect bird species and their habitats.

See also: bird, birdwatching, bluebird, seabird.