How to do birding in Woods.

[astafjevs]

Various tips I've been given or picked up from books:

Learn the calls and do it by ear (applies anywhere!).
Visit in winter after the leaves have fallen.
Visit in spring when the birds are in full voice and the trees aren't in full leaf.
Most birds prefer less dense woods so stick to the edges or clearings/glades.

All of which seems plausible but doesn't stop me drawing regular blanks. I think perhaps the woods just aren't as full of birds as we'd like to think!

Love the fallen tree pic!

[Dave H]

I'm no expert, but I have found that our woodland park can appear to be void of bird-life from time to time.
I did find that the trees that stand at the edge of the woods in sun tended have more birds around. For this park the best sunny location would change during the day as the sun moved.

Perhaps that's the best place for bugs?

Dave

[devonsue]

I agree with Little Sparrow. I walk my dogs through woods so we amble along and LISTEN. When I hear some tweetings I decide which direction it is coming from and cast the bins over the trees in that direction and hope to see some action. It usually works and the dogs have learnt to associate bins to eyes mean lie down for a rest!!!! Seen some interesting stuff this way and it helps to put into the brain: call, bird and jizz. Still the leaves are beginning to fall now so it should get easier to observe.

Sue

[RoyW__]

As others have already said, the best tip for woodland birdwatching - anywhere in the world at any time of year - is to learn calls (+ songs for the breeding season) and bird by ear.
Start by learning the calls of the more common species then when you hear something different you know that it's probably worth looking for.

At this time of year many birds will be in mixed flocks. If you encounter these, work out which direction they are moving in and then move to a clearer area ahead of them. Most birds will pause briefly at the edge before they cross a ride or clearing - giving you a chance if you are quick.
If you visit a wood regularly you can also identify areas that provide a good food source (eg.berries or seed), or in drier woods you might find a single popular water source. Waiting somewhere near these (but out of sight) may pay.

In spring and summer breeding birds move around less so you can more easily identify where to find them once you know the calls.

[PeterB]

Thanks for this all of you, just the sort of hints I wanted. Keep em coming.