Take a moment and ponder the roles that birds have played in our history. They have been revered as gods, as a form that gods take, as a messenger of peace and so much more. The bird has played a huge part in many classic works of fiction, movies and music. They are more than just two legged, winged wild animals that come to take food out of your bird feeders. Their graceful abilities and keen senses have set them aside from many species in the animal kingdom. Mankind’s first experience with birds as icons dates back to the time of the Egyptians and their religion.
If you look at ancient hieroglyphics, it is easy to see how big a role the bird played in Ancient Egypt. In fact one god, Horus, was said to have had the head of a falcon. His dominion was the sun and the moon but later he became the god of war. As a son to Isis and Osiris, Horus held a great fascination with many Egyptians. Stories of his famous battle with Set are still covered in books on religions in ancient times.
Exotic birds such as the falcon have always claimed humanity’s attention. Wild birds are the epitome of freedom. They sail through the skies without masters and do as they wish. They cannot be truly tamed. Even those that use falcons and hawks as gaming birds know that these species of birds can turn vicious and unpredictable if they are not treated properly and trained well. It can take years for a falcon or a hawk to be gentled. Perhaps that is why you do not see many people trying to own these birds. In medieval times it was common for lords to become falconers.
A bird icon or symbol will forever be part of society. There was even a song written about this graceful animal. Granted it is a rather humorous song that tends to get stuck in your head but it is still a party favorite and children love it. “The Birds the Word” recently has been seen on “The Family Guy.” And who can forget that “the bird” is a gesture of obscenity in most of the world. It may not be one that wild birds or domesticated birds want associated with their species, but it is here to stay. Our fascination with birds will continue and flourish as more people become interested in birding tours or even the history of birds.
Normally, when someone says something is “for the birds” you can assume that they mean the idea or subject they are talking about is crazy or outrageous. Bird watching enthusiasts take the phrase to a whole new level. It is a hobby that they gladly devote their time and money into. It does have its rewards, such as getting out into the fresh air and finding interesting species of birds that appeal to you. The best part is that even the novice can take up the hobby and be immediately rewarded.
Bird watching is one of those hobbies that you do not need a lot of information or equipment right off the bat. However, some people do want to get some guidance. One website that does offer guidance, equipment and hints/tips is www.birdwatching.com. They have tons of information for the beginner. They can even give you tips on setting up bird feeders in your yard so that the birds will come to your yard instead, eliminating the need to go traipsing through the woods to find them.
A great way to get into watching birds is to go on birding tours. These tours can be local or they can be to some tropical destination where you will observe exotic birds, such as Toucans or Flamingos. Just the thrill of seeing wild birds in their own natural habitat can be a treat for anyone. It not only gets you outside in the sun but it also can serve as an excellent form of exercise. You can easily cover miles when you are absorbed in watching the skies or trees for the birds that you are seeking out. If you are not quite ready to spend a lot of money on a birding tour, then you can always borrow a book from your local library and discover the birds that live in your area. There are many books that can offer you tips and tricks to seeking out local birds.
As mentioned above, if you do not really care for bird watching out in the forest or on birding tours, you can always set up bird feeders in your own yard. The birds will come in to eat and if you have provided special housing for them, they may even nest. This gives you a chance to observe how the birds parent their young. Just remember that different birds require different types of enticement.
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