Focusing on wing coverts can lead to further insights about birds. Read More “What birders should know about wing feathers”
A fluffed-up Chipping Sparrow, with its greater coverts shaded blue. Art by David Sibley
David Sibley's ID Toolkit
The author of the popular Sibley Guide to Birds and other books explains bird behaviors and field marks, birding techniques, and more.
Understanding birds’ habitat can help you identify them
A successful birder will be able to use habitat as a clue to identifying birds — and also quickly set it aside when necessary. Read More “Understanding birds’ habitat can help you identify them”
To identify distant waterbirds, learn their flocking behavior
In winter, identifying waterbirds is often challenging because the birds are too far away to see details. Understanding flocking behavior can help. Read More “To identify distant waterbirds, learn their flocking behavior”
What to look for as birds molt their worn-out feathers
Late summer is the time of year when many birds replace their feathers in a process called molt. Old feathers, most of which have been … Read More “What to look for as birds molt their worn-out feathers”
How waterfowl hide their wings
Become a better birder by understanding where feathers go when wings are folded. Read More “How waterfowl hide their wings”
David Sibley explains eye-rings
Learn how the shape and pattern of feathers around the eyes can help you identify birds. Read More “David Sibley explains eye-rings”
David Sibley explains how to point out a bird’s location
Sign up for our newsletter, full of identification tips, news, and more! Discussions of birding skills focus mainly on finding and identifying birds, but being … Read More “David Sibley explains how to point out a bird’s location”
David Sibley explains why a bird’s shape can be deceiving
Want to learn more about birds? Sign up for our newsletter! Experienced birders often stress the importance of shape and proportions for identification, and there … Read More “David Sibley explains why a bird’s shape can be deceiving”