10 essentials every new birdwatcher should have

Easily identify any bird your come across with the help of these items.  (iStock)

Bird watching is a great way to get outside and enjoy the surrounding nature. There’s just something relaxing about being in the woods, listening to the soothing sounds of bird calls. Get a few friends involved and suddenly, identifying birds becomes a competition.

Future birders can find everything they need to start bird watching on this list. You can get most of the items on the list in just 24 hours if you're an Amazon Prime member. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

Binoculars help show you birds far away.  (Amazon )

Anyone who wants to get into bird watching needs a good pair of binoculars so they can see birds up close. Most birds you hear will be hidden away in trees, so a strong pair of binoculars like this pair from Amazon can help you identify birds more easily. Bushnell also sells waterproof binoculars for anyone searching for birds in wet areas.

Carry your binoculars hands-free with a strap.  (Amazon )

During hikes, if you want to remain hands-free and still carry your binoculars, a binocular harness is what you’re looking for. It’s made specifically for binoculars and wraps around your shoulders for a comfortable fit. Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods both sell binocular harnesses.

Easily identify bird calls through the Merlin app.  (Apple Store)

One great birding apps is Merlin. It IDs birds by their songs so you can tell which birds are around when you’re walking, hiking or even in your own backyard. You can get the Merlin bird ID app on the Apple store for free.

Bird watch from the comfort of your own home.  (Amazon)

A smart bird feeder has a camera connected to it that you can connect to