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Helpful books for your wildlife adventures
- Florida Birds. I love this Florida birding book. As I’ve gotten into birding, I’ve relied on it a lot. Although it might not be as helpful if you don’t live in Florida, it includes many migratory birds, so you might be surprised by what’s included.
- Pocket Guide to Florida Birds. When I was just getting started with birding, I loved this field guide. It’s small enough to take with me and it has plenty of useful information. Now that I know my birds a bit better, I usually leave this at home.
- Birds of North America. When I venture further afield, I rely on this book to help me get familiar with the birds I’m seeing. Note that I use an older copy of this book. But since the old version is outrageously priced on Amazon, I’ve linked the updated edition.
- Trees of Eastern North America. If you like spending time in the woods, it’s sometimes fun to know what trees you are seeing. I’ve used this guide for years to help me identify trees from Florida to Maine and everywhere in between.
- Field Guide to Florida. This books includes a bit of everything that you might see in Florida. I’ve found it very useful. But, again, might not help you too much unless you live in Florida or want to visit.
- Mammal Tracks & Sign. I’ve recently gotten interested in tracking animals and trying to figure out whose tracks I’m seeing. This comprehensive book was very helpful for a deep dive. It’s a bit like a textbook. But I use it to flip through when I want to ID something.
- Pocket Guide to Animal Tracks. I’ve found this tiny book useful to take with me into the field. If I find something of interest, I can flip through to look for a match.
Helpful tools for your wildlife viewing pleasure
The following tools can help you get a better viewing experience.
- Binoculars. Although binos can get very expensive, the right pair can really enhance your wildlife viewing experience. I’ve linked a pair that I use. But consider finding one that suits your needs and budget.
- Camera. A good camera can help you capture the moment. Personally, I have a beginner’s camera and lens. (I started with the 18-55 mm lens but it truly wasn’t enough for my preferences of photographing wildlife from afar). I am totally jealous of some of the other wildlife photographers I see with massive lenses. For now, I’m sticking with a setup that I can afford and does a great job when I get lucky or have a willing wildlife subject (reptiles are my favorite because they stay still lol!). If you can go bigger, you might get even more out of your experience.
General outdoor gear that I love
When I’m outside, I’m usually using something from this list:
- Fast-drying pants. I’m almost always wearing this comfortable pants. Although I might not look the most fashionable, it helps avoid sunburns and bug bites.
- Breathable long-sleeve shirts. I’m often wearing a breathable long-sleeve shirt or the button-down version. Again, it saves me from the sun and bugs. I try to wear a bright color, like light blue or pink, to stand out in the woods in case hunters are nearby.
- Wide-brim hat. Not only does this protect me from the sun, but I swear it helps keep bugs from getting all over my face. If it’s really buggy, you can always through a mosquito net over this to protect your face from the swarm.
- Waterproof boots. It can get swampy in Florida. I love my waterproof boots that keep my feet dry, even on muddy days.
- Hands-free dog leash. If you have a pup that tags along, this leash is awesome. I can attach my large dog to my waist and leave my hands free to use my binos, take pictures, and more.
