If you have taken the time to watch birds feeding or flying around, you’ll probably recognize they have fascinating behaviors. Birds also display their intelligence in various ways, whether they are out in groups or solo. There’s little surprise people have taken up observing birds as a hobby or career to learn more about them. However, not everyone likes to be called a bird watcher.
So, what are bird watchers called? And are there any differences between the different terminologies? Read on to find answers to these questions and more about bird watching!
What are bird watchers called?
Bird watchers spend time looking at birds and learning more about them. They observe the behaviors of birds and often take quality photos of birds in their natural habitat. However, not all bird watchers like to be called bird watchers. Everyone prefers different names, including:
- Birders
- Ornithologists
- Bird enthusiasts
- Twitchers
- Listers
- Tickers
- Nature-lovers
Most of the time, the specific term used depends on their level of knowledge about birds and how much time they spend looking at birds or researching information.
What is the difference between birding and bird watching?
The terms birding and bird watching are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference for serious birders. Bird watching is more passive, where you watch birds casually as you see them flying around or coming to your feeder.
Birding is more active and can be considered a sport. If you are a birder, you are actively finding birds in their natural habitat and working to improve your bird-searching skills through classes or field trips. Birders are also more likely to recognize different bird species and carry expensive binoculars or spotting scopes when they seek out birds.
What is an ornithologist?
An ornithologist is someone with a degree in ornithology, which is the study of birds. They might also have a biology Ph.D. but focus on a particular type of bird. Generally, ornithologists work at zoos, museums, universities, or nature centers to help learn more about birds and conserve them for the future.
You might hear some bird watchers call themselves amateur ornithologists. Typically, they are people who observe and learn things about birds similar to an ornithologist. They might also compile information about particular species and their behaviors.
What is a twitcher?
A twitcher describes someone who is trying to spot as many birds as possible to add to their life list. They will sometimes take part in events such as a “rarity chase” to find rare birds or other competitive events. Some people consider twitchers a type of birder since they will travel long distances to find new birds.