The best way to become proficient at telling one bird species from another, the male from the female, and the immature from the adult, is to spend time watching birds. It needs to be daily or several times a week in order to achieve any mastery. Along with that, having bird books and field guides available makes the guessing game so much easier. Although we have blundered a few species, we have learned to identify some of the most basic and exotic birds in our area. When we lived out in the country of south Florida, we saw many water birds and cranes: sand hill cranes, roseate spoonbill, blue heron, among others. And the only way we have learned is by looking out the window, observing the field marks, and running to find the name under the picture in the book.

In order to know which birds are found in your area, you can call or visit the local bird society, zoo, aviary or club, veterinarian specializing in birds, SPCA (Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), ornithologists or the library. Bird sanctuaries might have a local bird list you could copy or buy. Once you have a roster in hand, your chances of correctly identifying a bird increase. You will be able to know with some certainty whether Arctic terns really do live in the desert of Arizona.

Vocabulary

We have some friends who love birds. They raise many types, and can tell you amazing facts about the objects of their hobby. Bird habits, habitats, beaks, feet ... all take on new names in the presence of an ornithologist, professional or amateur. As with all studies, the vernacular is understood by those in the know. So, if you plan on hanging out with some "bird people," study the listed vocabulary  words, so you can follow the conversation, and perhaps nod in general understanding:

Field marks: a natural mark on a bird used to aid in identifying species. Birders usually look for marks on the bird’s tail, wings, breast, head, or near the eye.

Field guide: a book of bird identification.

Habitat: a particular area where one lives (example: swamp, bushes, trees)

Behavior: walking, flying, or perching peculiar to specific species. The take-off or landing of a bird can help you identify it. Other characteristics to watch for: the way it bobs its tail up and down; if it walks down a tree upside down; or whether it hops, runs strolls; in flight, if it swoops and dips or flies straight.

Preening: the act of a bird cleaning its feathers by pulling each one through its beak. Also to spread oil from its preen gland (near its rump) over its feathers (to make them waterproof).

Brooding: sitting on eggs or baby birds to keep them warm.

Information

Beginning "birders" memorize the size and shape of the robin. Measuring about ten inches long, it is of medium length and size for a bird. Many times a bird's size is gauged by comparing it to a robin, either larger or smaller than. Also, it is usually the first bird to return in the spring after the winter cold. So it is a very common sight. Sparrows and crows round out the smaller and larger sized bird standard, respectively.