I Regret Everything (Well, Almost Everything) About My Birding Start

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I haven’t been birding as long as some people I know. In fact, I’ve met birders who have been birding longer than I’ve been alive! But still, even in my time as a birder, I’ve learnt a few things. I’ve done a lot right to help me grow and become better, but I’ve also made my share of mistakes.

Looking back on my journey, there are some things I would do differently. So, instead of writing a self-congratulatory post and asking you all to stand in awe of my birding greatness, I want to share three of my biggest regrets. Maybe this will encourage some birders, especially newer ones, to approach things a little differently. That said, I recognise this is my journey, and some of the things I regret, you might be perfectly okay with.

Red-throated Twinspot photographed in Malawi

Here are three of my biggest regrets as a birder:

1. Not exploring my local area better before heading further afield

This might go against how many people approach birding. We often want to get out and add new species to our list as quickly as possible. Only later did I start to realise the value of having a local patch. I began to appreciate the gift that local birds offer—the chance to observe, learn, and build foundational birding skills.

As a newer birder, I wish I had spent more time studying the species in my immediate area. I would have seen fewer lifers initially, but I’d have developed a much stronger base to build on. I would’ve understood bird families better, improved my ID skills, and likely been more familiar with calls and behaviours, skills that would’ve helped me immensely when travelling to other areas.

2. Focusing more on my list than the birds in front of me

I’ve been fortunate to see some incredible species. For a few of them, I have unforgettable stories and memories. But sadly, for many of the birds on my list, all I have is a vague recollection. I might remember the location or who I was with, but I don’t remember much about the bird itself. No details about its plumage. No memory of its behaviour. Just a tick on a list.

I’ve been really inspired by Michael Mason on Facebook. He’s seen far more species than I have, but through his photos and words, you can see that he truly observes and connects with the birds he encounters. That’s the kind of birder I aspire to be.

3. Comparing my journey to others

This one’s tricky. It’s not always bad to look at others, especially when we’re learning from or investing in fellow birders. But I’ve often caught myself comparing twitch stories and trips, and trying to copy those experiences in my own journey. The problem? It’s usually been detrimental to my bank account, pushing me to bird beyond my means. All for what? To look good in the eyes of other birders.

We need to embrace our own journey, bird within our means, and celebrate where we are. Make the most of every opportunity. So what if your life list isn’t as long as someone else’s? While we’re at it, let’s be kind. Celebrate the successes of others, even if their birding style is different to yours.

These are my three biggest regrets as a birder. I think it’s healthy to reflect—to assess how we’re doing. It helps us avoid repeating the same mistakes and, just maybe, helps someone else on their own journey.

What are your biggest regrets as a birder?

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