The Perch Post

Getting Started

What to buy first, where to put a feeder, and what to expect in those early weeks when the birds are still finding you — plus the one mistake most beginners make.

Getting Started

8 guides
Getting Started

Is Backyard Birding Expensive? The Real Costs

A realistic breakdown of birding costs: binoculars, feeders, seed, and optional gear, with honest price ranges and tips to start for free.

June 11, 2026
Getting Started

How to Keep a Backyard Bird Journal and Life List

Learn how to keep a bird watching journal and life list that actually helps you learn faster, spot patterns, and remember every bird you've seen.

June 1, 2026
Getting Started

Birdwatching Etiquette and Ethics for Beginners

Learn the practical birding ethics every beginner should know, from keeping a respectful distance to protecting nesting birds and shared spaces.

May 18, 2026
Getting Started

How to Choose Binoculars for Birdwatching

Find the right binoculars for bird watching with this practical guide covering magnification, objective lens size, optical coatings, and budget tiers.

May 4, 2026
Getting Started

Common Backyard Birding Mistakes Beginners Make

Avoid these common backyard birding mistakes that keep birds away. Practical beginner tips on feeders, placement, seed, and habitat that actually work.

April 29, 2026
Getting Started

How to Use eBird and Merlin to Identify and Log Birds

Learn how to use eBird and Merlin to identify backyard birds, log your sightings, and get more out of every birdwatching session.

April 21, 2026
Getting Started

The Beginner Birder's Starter Kit: What You Actually Need

Backyard birding equipment doesn't need to be expensive. Here's what actually matters for beginners, and what you can skip.

April 20, 2026
Getting Started

How to Start Backyard Birding: A Beginner's Guide

Learn how to start backyard birding with simple steps: what gear you need, how to set up feeders, and which birds to expect first.

April 6, 2026

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