5 Best Gifts for Birdwatchers

Birding isn't just a hobby; it's a passion that connects people with nature in profound ways. If you have a birdwatcher in your life—whether they're a seasoned enthusiast or a budding feeder watcher—finding the perfect gift to elevate their experience can be both meaningful and rewarding. Here's a curated list, from the experts at Mass Audubon, of the best birdwatching gifts you can give. 

1. Feeders: Invite the Birds to Their Backyard 

One of the simplest yet most fulfilling gifts for a birdwatcher is their very own bird feeder. From classic tube feeders to suet cages, there are different feeder styles for every need. If the birdwatcher in your life wants to attract orioles, they may enjoy a fruit-friendly feeder. Nectar feeders invite quick-darting hummingbirds, while suet feeders lure visiting woodpeckers. A classic bird seed mix can feed nuthatches, bluebirds, and more from squirrel-deterring models and window attachment styles.  

Familiarize yourself with bird feeding do's and don'ts, then select the right feeder for the birdwatcher in your life.  

2. Field Guides: Navigate the Avian World 

A comprehensive field guide is an essential tool for any birdwatcher. Whether they're identifying a colorful warbler or a sky-high raptor, a well-illustrated guidebook provides valuable insights into bird behavior, habitat, and migration patterns. Opt for a regional guide tailored to the recipient's location for more accurate identification and a deeper understanding of local birdlife.  

3. Binoculars: Give Detailed Views of Sightings 

No birdwatcher's toolkit is complete without a reliable pair of binoculars. A high-quality set of binoculars can make all the difference when looking for elusive birds and intricate details of plumage and behavior. Look for binoculars with waterproofing, image stabilization, and a wide field of view to ensure optimal performance in various outdoor conditions.  

The Mass Audubon Shop has a robust collection of binoculars to choose from and can help you select a pair that best fits your needs. 

4. Bird-themed Swag: Showcase Their Interests 

For a personalized touch, consider gifting bird-themed apparel or accessories featuring their favorite birds. Whether it's a sweatshirt adorned with a stoic Snowy Owl or a stylish buff collaged with local birds, wearable art allows birdwatchers to display their passion wherever they go. Unique wall hangings, desk decor, and bird-themed kitchenware bring reminders of their outdoor hobbies inside. 

5. Mass Audubon Membership: The Ultimate Birdwatching Gift 

Encourage their birding hobby and support birdlife by giving the gift of a Mass Audubon Membership. As a Mass Audubon member, you get access to 60+ wildlife sanctuaries—managed with bird habitat health in mind—for free. You can also join seasonal bird walks and targeted birdwatching programs led by Mass Audubon experts at a discount. 

The gift of membership not only enriches the recipient's birdwatching experience but also contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. Members play a vital role in supporting Mass Audubon’s mission to protect the nature of Massachusetts. 

Looking to get any of the other cool gifts for birdwatchers already mentioned in this article? Lucky for you, Mass Audubon members get discounts at the Mass Audubon Shop too, where you can find feeders, guides, binoculars, clothes, and more. 

Give the Gift of Membership