A Guide to Safe and Enjoyable Winter Birding

Winter may seem like a quiet season for birding, but it’s full of surprises and breathtaking beauty! While many birds migrate to warmer climates, some stick around, and others even arrive to overwinter. With proper preparation, winter birding can be a magical and rewarding experience. Here’s your guide to safe and enjoyable birding in the colder months.

BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin members with eyes on a Hairy Woodpecker at Lake Farm Park. Photo by Dexter Patterson

To Do’s for Winter Birding

1.     Pay Attention to the Weather

Winter weather can change rapidly, so check the forecast before heading out. Be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature or precipitation and avoid venturing out in extreme conditions.

2.     Dress for the Cold

Layers are essential for staying warm and comfortable during winter birding. Here’s how to layer up effectively:

• Base Layer: Start with thermal underwear or a moisture-wicking layer to keep your body warm and dry. These layers help regulate your body temperature by pulling sweat away from your skin.

• Middle Layer: Add insulation, like a fleece or your favorite hoodie—hoodies are perfect for comfort and warmth while protecting your head.

• Outer Layer: Choose a windproof winter coat and pants to shield you from the elements.

• Protect Your Extremities:

  • Wear a warm winter hat that covers your ears.

  • Use gloves or mittens with liners for extra warmth.

  • Double-layer socks (or wool or heated socks) to keep your feet warm.

  • Choose comfortable, preferably waterproof hiking boots to avoid cold, wet feet.

  • Extras: Face masks or scarves help protect against wind, and portable hand and foot warmers are lifesavers for stationary birdwatching.

3.     Stay Hydrated

Even in the cold, your body works hard, so drinking plenty of water is crucial. Bring a thermos with hot tea or cocoa to warm up on the trail. Your body will thank you for it.

Pro Tip: Take care of your skin! The cold, dry air can be harsh on exposed skin. Use a good face moisturizer to protect your skin and apply an extra moisture barrier like cocoa butter or Aquaphor to areas exposed to the elements. These will help prevent dryness and chapping, keeping your face safe in bitterly cold conditions.

4.     Stick to the Trails

Stay on marked paths to avoid unsafe terrain. Some trails may be closed for winter activities like skiing or snowmobiling—pay Attention to signs and respect closures.

5.     Let Someone Know Your Plans

Always inform a family member or friend about your location and expected return time. This simple step can be a lifesaver in an emergency, especially in winter conditions.

6.     Bring a Friend

Birding with a buddy is not only safer but also more fun! Two sets of eyes are better for spotting elusive birds.

7.     Gear Up for Success

Members of the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin birding along Lake Waubesa on January 11, 2025. Photo by Dexter Patterson

Pack essentials like binoculars, bring a snack and make sure your device is fully charged. Cold weather can drain batteries faster than usual.

Don’ts for Winter Birding

1.     Don’t Underestimate the Cold

Always bring extra layers—it’s better to be too warm than too cold.

2.     Don’t Venture Onto Ice

Avoid walking on frozen lakes or ponds unless the ice is safe. It’s not worth the risk.

3.     Don’t Ignore Trail Signs

Respect trail closures and avoid disrupting other winter activities like skiing or snowmobiling.

4.     Don’t Let the Cold Stop You

Birding in winter can be incredibly rewarding. During our recent hike at Lake Farm Park on January 11, 2025, we spotted 24 bird species, including a Bald Eagle, a Belted Kingfisher, and Tundra Swans.

Winter Birding Highlights

Winter birding offers a unique opportunity to see hardy species thrive in colder climates. Look out for:

• Woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches in wooded areas.

• Waterfowl and Swans near open water.

• Raptors, like Bald Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks, are active and can be spotted in winter.

• Snowy and Short-eared Owls are two iconic winter visitors. Snowy Owls love open agriculture fields and airports, while Short-eared Owls fly low over grasslands or marshes at dusk.

Pro Tips:

• Open water is a magnet for birds in winter—check rivers, streams, and lakes with open pockets of water for activity.

• To find owls, scan coniferous trees for signs like needles on the ground or whitewash on tree trunks. For Short-eared Owls, focus on open fields during twilight hours.

Final Thoughts

Winter birding is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with nature in new ways. With the proper clothing, gear, and mindset, you can safely enjoy the beauty of the season while discovering the amazing birdlife that thrives in the cold.

So bundle up, folks, grab your favorite hoodie, hit the trails, and don’t let winter hold you back—your feathered friends are waiting to brighten your day!

Birding is for everyone all year round. Yes, even in the winter. Let’s go!

Winter Birding “Usie” on the Lower Yahara Bridge. Photo by Dexter Patterson