Optics & Tech
Binoculars
Some of our favorite options for every budget. They’re all waterproof and fogproof and have the key attributes birders look for in bins: good clarity, brightness, color rendition, close-focus capacity, and ease of focus.
Nikon Prostaff P7 8×42 ($160). Specs: 20.8 oz; 9.8 ft close focus; 20.2mm eye relief; 377 ft/1,000 yds field of view (FOV).
Vortex Diamondback 8×42 ($290). Specs: 21.8 oz; 5 ft close focus; 17mm eye relief; 393 ft/1,000 yds FOV
Vortex Viper HD 8×42 ($640). Specs: 24.2 oz; 6 ft close focus; 18mm eye relief; 409 ft/1000 yds FOV
Maven B1.2 8×42 ($950). Specs: 26.8 oz.; 4.9 ft close focus; 18.1mm eye relief; 420 ft/1000 yds FOV
Zeiss SFL 8×40 ($1,800) Specs: 22.6 oz; 4.9 ft close focus; 18mm eye relief; 420 ft/1000 yds FOV
Swarovski EL 8.5×42 ($2,410) Specs: 29.5 oz; 10.8 ft close focus; 20mm eye relief; 399 ft/1000 yds FOV
Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera
Whether you’re a pro or a serious amateur photographer or videographer, the EOS R5 has a lot to like, delivering superb image quality and quality video capture with its 45 Megapixel full-frame sensor. Its ergonomic body design and Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD are a boon for those out shooting birds, in sometime awkward positions, for long stretches. Wildlife photographers will also appreciate the remarkable “Animal Eye” autofocus lock. Several former Audubon Photography Award winners and honorable mention awardees raved about R5 when asked, for our Summer 2021 issue, about a recent purchase they’d made that they’d recommend to a friend. “An arguably game-changing autofocus system,” said one. “The autofocus system, resolution and low light capabilities for bird photography are outstanding,” said another.
$3,899, usa.canon.com
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 55-210mm Lens and Accessories Kit
A great entry point camera for photo and video creators. With its 4k resolution this camera has impressive image quality and excellent noise reduction in low light; it also boasts good battery life, and its compact body is quiet when shooting. The accessories kit includes a Sony zoom lens ideal for bird photography and video; add a 16-50mm lens for versatile wider shots and vlogging.
$1,282; bhphotovideo.com
Nikon Lens Pen
A key rule for caring for binoculars, scopes, and cameras: Never clean the glass components with anything abrasive. (We’re looking at you, cotton T-shirt.) Compact, affordable, and useful as can be, this tool for cleaning lenses is a perfect stocking-stuffer for any birder. The retractable brush on one end sweeps away dirt and debris, while the chamois cleaning tip on the other end removes fingerprints and smudges for an unblemished view.
$10; nikonusa.com
Nibmle CHAMP Portable Charger
Don’t risk a dead phone while out in the field. Pack a portable charger to keep your device’s battery juiced all day, allowing you to search bird apps and snap photos with abandon. The Champ is the size of a pack of cards and charges two devices at once.
$30; gonimble.com
Jackery Explorer 240 Portable Power Station
If you’re looking to step up your portable power game, the Explorer is an excellent option. With a nimble handle for easy carrying and simple push-button operations, keep your electronics—and those of your friends’—humming in the field. To charge, plug into a wall outlet or a car charger, or secure energy from the sun with a Jackery SolarSaga 60W solar panel (sold separately).
$220; jackery.com
Moment Macro 10x Lens
See nature anew simply by attaching this macro lens to your smartphone. Just position the device near your subject—as close as an inch or less!—to get a detailed, mesmerizing look at plants and insects that birds depend on. Need convincing? Check out this engrossing video about pollinators by Emily Graslie, an award-winning science communicator and video host/producer. Compatible with the latest Apple, Google, Samsung, and OnePlus devices.
$100; shopmoment.com
AllTrails Pro Subscription
Get off the beaten track to see birds—and then use this app to stay on route. With an AllTrails account, the powerful app offers a searchable database of hundreds of thousands of outdoor hiking, biking, and walking paths, complete with user photos, ratings, tips, and reviews, as well as the ability to filter by a variety of criteria, use GPS to track your hike as you go, and create lists of favorite trails. All of that is free, but the bonus features that come with the annual ad-free subscription are worth it: You can download maps for offline viewing, search for trails by distance from your location, remove ads, and even receive notifications on your phone when you veer off course on a hike.
$36 for one year; alltrails.com
Gear
Cotopaxi Luzon 24L Backpack
With more than 20 bright color combinations to choose from, this bag is a crowd pleaser. The lightweight body, made from repurposed nylon fabric, and mesh shoulder straps make for a comfy carry. Two exterior pockets, a zippered compartment, and a roomy main cavity provide plenty of space to transport binoculars, a camera, a water bottle, a layer, and snacks. This pack is made in the Philippines at a factory committed to fair labor and environmentally sound practices.
$80; cotopaxi.com
Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel
This is a sustainable traveler’s dream bag. Made with 100% recycled materials, the wide zipper opening makes it easy to pack and find stuff mid-journey, and the convertible backpack straps add versatility. Sizes: 40L, 60L, 90L, 110L duffels, and a 130L wheeled version.
$99 and up; eaglecreek.com
Urban Native “You Are On Native Land” Dad Cap
This cool cap conveys a powerful message. Remind yourself and everyone you encounter that you’re standing on Indigenous land with this hat by Indigenous-owned Urban Native. Available in several colors, the hats also have a hummingbird patch that pays homage to the creation story of the Ohlone, the people on whose land the brand was started. The cap is made with 100% organic cotton and toxic-free dyes and has an adjustable strap. One size fits all.
$35; urbannativeera.com
Rumpl Original Blanket
It’s like a sleeping bag or puffy jacket—but in outdoor blanket form. Keep it handy to wrap around you during an adventure in a blind or to toast up in the car after an outing. The hollow-fiber synthetic insulation, made of 100% post-consumer recycled materials, provides warmth while the weather-resistant coating repels water and protects you from the elements. With dozens of patterns to choose from, there’s a perfect fit for everyone on your list.
$99; rumpl.com
Stanley Classic Legendary Thermos
Hot coffee or tea never taste better than they do outside after a bit of a walk. That goes double in winter. Stanley has been at it for a long time and knows how to keep hot liquids hot and cold liquids cold with vacuum insulation. It also make sa bottle that’s leakproof, sweatproof, and practically indestructible—while looking dang good. This 1.5-quart thermos with a collapsible handle and an insulated lid that doubles as a cup is a classic for a reason.
$42; stanley1913.com
LifeStraw Peak Series Collapsible Squeeze 1L Bottle with Filter Squeeze
A water bottle is a must-have item on any outing, and this one is our new go-to. Collapsible yet durable, the versatile design lets you drink stream water with complete confidence. Simply fill up the BPA-free soft bottle and squeeze: Water passes through a microfilter that meets federal drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites, then directly into your mouth.
$38; lifestraw.com
Dometic GO Hydration Water Faucet
The luxury outdoor item you never knew you needed. This rechargeable faucet produces running water with a simple tap, and includes a clever light on the underside that turns on when it’s operating. Just insert the hose into the opening of a traditional jerry can (or purchase Dometic’s custom jug) and get about a liter of water in a minute. The faucet has comes with a puck for faucet placement and a magnetic base for that sticks like glue to metal surfaces.
$100; dometic.com
Amok Draumr 5.0 Hammock
This hammock includes a bug net to keep you at ease in the backcountry and packs small in a stuff sack. (Sleeping pad sold separately.) It can also be adjusted to a seated position—Amok calls this “beer mode,” but that’s your call—so you can watch birds or the sunset in comfort.
$220; amokequipment.com
Thermacell Rechargeable Adventure EX-Series
Mosquitoes? What mosquitoes? This gadget has an amazing ability to ward off the pests (within a 20-foot zone) that can turn a fun outing into a nightmare. Small enough to slip into a daypack and still fit your usual supplies, the repeller runs for up to nine hours before it needs a recharge, and comes with one 12-hour refill repellent cartridge.
$50; thermacell.com
Kahtoola EXOspikes
Snow and ice pose no obstacle thanks to these light, easily donned cleats. The ultra-tough tungsten carbide spikes are small but mighty and have superior grip, providing the sure footing to those who want to keep their eyes up for spotting birds, not focused on the ground.
$63; kahtoola.com
Clothing
Wazzie Wool Jacquard Mock Neck Long Sleeve Top
With a high mock turtleneck, extra-long sleeves, and insulating-yet-breathable merino wool—plus a gorgeous avian print—this layer will keep you out chasing birds when temps dip.
$124; oiselle.com
Patagonia Long-Sleeved Self-Guided Hike Shirt
This field shirt looks like a normal button-down shirt but protects you from the sun (SPF 50), dries quickly, and stuffs small to stash in a day pack. Unlike its counterparts, it doesn’t have straps and buttons that often seem to be more “outdoorsy” aesthetic than functional. Plus, it’s made of recycled polyester. Available in men’s and women’s versions.
$89; patagonia.com
Let’s Go Birding Together Sweatshirt
Get cozy this winter while supporting Audubon employees who are championing an inclusive, diverse, and equitable bird conservation movement. The proceeds from this playful, sponge fleece sweatshirt benefit Audubon’s internal affinity groups that bring together and support people of color, people who identify as LGBTQIA++ and women, people with disabilities, and others.
$46; audubon.threadless.com
L.L. Bean Men’s Signature 1933 Chamois Cloth Shirt, Slim Fit
Our reviewer has two of these shirts already—one slim fit, one traditional—and hopes Santa will bring him a third this Christmas. Made from thick, 100 percent cotton flannel, it’s durable, soft, and warm enough to provide a versatile layer for the colder months. More styles available.
$79; llbean.com
Jungmaven Thermal Mountain Henley
This update on a classic Henley will keep you warm on its own when you’re lounging inside planning your next outing, or seamlessly layer under your favorite shirt (ahem, see above) or sweater when you head out the door. The blend of hemp and organic cotton breaths well, looks great, and should last several seasons.
$94; jungmaven.com
Bird Collective T-shirt
Founded in 2019, the Brooklyn-based company Bird Collective partners with bird conservation projects and groups to design enticing, fun birdy apparel, while donating “at least 20 percent” of its profits to organizations such as Alabama Audubon, Hawkwatch International, and the Yurok Tribe. Their well-made adult and kids T-shirts feature a field guide’s worth of avian diversity, such as tie-dye Cactus Wren and Anna’s Hummingbird, woodpeckers galore, and a proud Greater Sage-Grouse. Pick your favorite bird design or cause, and gift away.
Starting at $35; birdcollective.com
Duckworth Vapor Tee
For those who swear by merino wool, meet what may be the last T-shirt you ever buy. It’s the longest-lasting merino top our reviewer has ever had—her first one is still going strong after five years of weekly wears and continues to have the wicking power and odor-resistance that makes merino so popular. What more, the material and products are 100% Montana-grown and American-made. Men’s and women’s versions available.
$69; duckworthco.com
Ortovox 185 Rock’’N’Wool Long Pants
If you want insulating bottoms that provide warmth but won’t hold you back, look no further. Men’s and women’s versions available, and they also come in a three-quarter length. The product has other benefits, too: It’s climate neutral, was manufactured under fair working conditions, and meets a responsible wool standard.
$110; ortovox.com
Prana Halle Jogger II
Go from traveling to birding in a (fashionable) instant with these stretchy and durable recycled nylon fabric pants. The six deep pockets are perfect for carrying your phone, a pair of gloves, a small notebook, and plenty of snacks.
$95; prana.com
Outerwear & Footwear
ExOfficio BugsAway Lumen Hoody
This featherweight layer doesn’t just provide breezy protection from the sun, it also stops mosquitoes, black flies, and other bothersome bugs that have their pesky designs on you. Don’t worry fellas—there’s a style for you, too.
$70; exofficio.com
Rab Vital Hoody
If there’s one layer a birder should always put in their backpack or hip bag, it’s a windbreaker. The versatile light jacket wards off the elements that might otherwise cut an outing short—chilly winds, glaring sun, and, in the case of the Vital Hoody, even light rain. The windproof nylon layer is treated with fluorocarbon-free DWR and has roomy side pockets, a full-length front zip with a storm flap to prevent wind or water from seeping in, and a brimmed hood.
$85; rab.equipment
Patagonia Microdini Hoody
Your other fleeces will likely see little daylight when this one moves in—it quickly became my favorite. Made from recycled polyester and nylon that reduces our reliance on petroleum, it’s durable yet incredibly soft. The relaxed fit and modern cut will have you birding in comfort and style. Men’s and women’s versions available.
$149; patagonia.com
Save The Duck Recycled Puffer Jackets
Here’s something to quack about: A line of chic-yet-warm puffy coats made with 100% recycled polyester from plastic bottles. This is the latest installment from the Italian brand, which has built a reputation for its down-free collections, combining smart designs, certified recycled materials, and a supply chain that meets high social and environmental standards.
$250 and up; savetheducksusa.com
Outdoor Research Helium AscentShell Jacket
This is a raincoat that can handle the elements. Our editor tested this shell while being blasted by saltwater on a boat zooming through Florida Bay and exploring mangroves: She stayed dry, the zippers didn’t leak, and the jacket didn’t show a scratch. The sustainable shell is bluesign-certified and boasts the lightweight durability of Pertex Diamond Fuse fabric; the women’s size medium weighs a mere 10.5 ounces. It’s a worthy splurge for a loved one who will use the waterproof, breathable shell year-round. Available in men’s and women’s versions.
$399; outdoorresearch.com
Bogs Classic Ultra High Boots
There’s no question—these are the best snow boots one of our editor’s has ever had. She’s worn them for 10-plus years, and they’re still waterproof, warm, and stink-free. They’re just the right kind of tall, and the stretch fabric hugs your calves, so no snow ever gets in. Best part: no tedious lacing or zipping, the handles help make slipping them on genuinely easy.
$140; bogsfootwear.com
Xtratuf Legacy LTE Lace boots
The ruggedness you’d expect from all Xtratuf footwear married with a stylish, waterproof suede upper, these boots will keep your feet dry and toasty come rain or slush or snow. Our reviewer, a big fan of the classic Legacy boot (available in men’s and women’s versions), adores these for their lighter weight and slimmer profile.
$165; xtratuf.com
Hoka Speedgoat 5
Grippy. Cushiony. Made to tackle tough terrain. These kicks are a dream for the birder who prefers trail-running shoes to hiking boots. The upper on this year’s version accommodates a broader range of foot widths. Available in women’s and men’s versions.
$155; hoka.com
American Coot Premium Felt Wool Slippers
It’s amazing what you can find on Etsy. Looking for an American Coot plushie, one staffer found these custom-made felted-wool coot-themed slippers instead. Each rubber-soled pair is handmade to your foot size, and if coots don’t make you kick your heels, you can also pick a pair with a needle-felted gull or one with an Evening Grosbeak plus a nest with eggs. Because these are handmade in Ukraine, between the ongoing war and unpredictable supply chain issues it could take some time for your order to arrive. Don’t need new slips but still want a cute felted-wool bird? Check out this Etsy shop (also in Ukraine) for all of your adorabirb needs.
$105; etsy.com
Arts & Entertainment
Biodegradable Bird Prints by Mayuko Fujino
Fujino’s artworks are made of foraged paint from local rocks and plants and natural paper, and feature our favorite bird species (find her American Robin in the Winter issue of Audubon magazine!).
$50 and up; mayukofujino.com
“Field Guide” Series Print
Give the gift of a loved one’s favorite bird seen from a different perspective. For his Field Guide series, California artist Christopher Reiger carefully analyzed many photos of dozens of species, breaking down each bird’s distinct attributes—from plumage to beak to eyes—into a rainbow palette of colors. The self-described taxonomy nerd sees his project as a creative attempt at classifying the range of avian diversity. You can paint your wall with the results.
$36; christopherreiger.art
Pop Chart Lab’s Birds of North America poster
If you spy on people’s home offices during Audubon Zoom meetings, you’ll see at least a couple of us have this large, 36” x 24” poster, which features 740 birds (both native and introduced) pleasingly drawn to scale and sorted by species. It’s fun to come home from a birding walk and point out the species you just spotted.
$40; popchart.co
For the Birds: The Birdsong Project Box Set
Packed with bird-themed tracks from major acts like Elvis Costello and Yo-Yo Ma and poetry read by stars like Regina King and Matthew McConaughey, the collection is a feast for the ears that also fuels conservation. All proceeds benefit Audubon’s work.
$400; audubon.org
Books for Bird Nerds and Nature Lovers
Crime, passion, intrigue, humor, the resilience of nature and the human spirit—we’ve rounded up six new books that are sure to captivate any avian or outdoor enthusiast.
See the titles at audubon.org.
Aivituvin Outdoor Catio
Provide your favorite feline (or two, or three!) with the enrichment of being outdoors without the risks—to themselves, birds, and other wildlife—that come with roaming free. The four wheels make it easy to move the catio (cat + patio = catio), which has a waterproof asphalt roof and is made from fir, wood that is durable and resistant to rot and insects. Reviewers on amazon.com resoundingly agree: Cats love it! Assembly required.
$275; aituvin.com
Audubon Mural
Give a truly one-of-a-kind gift: a bird mural. The Audubon Mural Project is a public-art initiative of the National Audubon Society and Gitler &_____ Gallery. The project, which started in the New York City’s Harlem and Washington Heights neighborhoods, commissions artists to paint murals that draw attention to birds threatened by climate change. By sponsoring an existing medium-size mural, you will help us lay groundwork for adding to the avian abundance. Youl’l receive an 8″x10″ print of your sponsored mural as a thank you, or you can this Google map to see it and dozens of others in person.
$500; audubon.org
Kids
Audubon Birdfeeder Craft Kit
This fun DIY kit includes the pieces to easily build the feeder, plus paint and stickers to decorate it. Assembly is easy enough for a kid to do, with a little help from an adult, and the stickers add a fun element that most other paint-kits don’t have. There are birds, flowers, and pollinators to decorate with and kids will stay engaged throughout the whole process. A layer of clear-coat spray will keep the paint colors from fading and protect the stickers from the elements.
$17; masterpiecesinc.com
Nature’s Way Green Pine Flush-mount Bee House
A marvelous addition to any yard or deck, this wooden structure attracts mason and leaf-cutter bees, native pollinators that don’t sting and will provide endless interest for insect-loving youngsters. As pollinators, bees make critical contributions to healthy ecosystems, helping native plants thrive. They’re also in decline, so little ones can give them a hand by giving them a home.
$11; lowes.com
Audubon Kid’s Birding Activity Calendar
This new addition to the Workman Audubon calendar series focuses on introducing elementary-age kids to the joys of birding. Particularly cute and engaging are the stickers you can add to the calendar to commemorate when you see a life bird or to mark another important event. (We already applied all our birthday stickers for 2023!). Each month includes interesting information and an activity about the bird pictured, and there are adorable illustrations throughout.
$17; audubon.org
Birdy and Nature-Themed Books for Kids
Jon is a quiet, solitary boy who seeks out the company of birds—animals that bring him happiness and provide companionship. One evening he hears a Barred Owl hooting and goes to find it, setting out on a path that will ultimately lead him to a lifelong friendship with a fellow bird lover. This delightful tale is just one in our roundup of books that will delight children of various ages, and maybe even inspire them to take action.
See the titles at audubon.org.
Kamik STOMP Rain Boots
Kids can’t ignore the call of rain and mud puddles. These aptly named boots let ‘em stomp away while ensuring their feet and lower legs stay dry and warm. Rain or shine, let the outdoor adventures begin! Made from recyclable rubber; 100% waterproof.
$35; us.kamik.com
REI Coop Tarn Pack
Time tested by day campers everywhere—including our own—the REI Tarn backpack is the ideal combination of size and utility for long days spent exploring the outdoors. Slim and
compact, the Tarn 12 is tailor made for the kindergarten set, big enough to hold lunch and a raincoat and small enough not to weigh down their nature play. It has a compartment for a water bladder and carabiner loops to boot. Have a growing hiker? The Tarn also steps up in size. Its use of recycled and bluesign-certified materials make it a good choice for the environment, too.
$40 and up; rei.com
Stocking Stuffers
Crane Scissors
These elegant sewing snips, or small scissors, fit perfectly in the hand. And whenever you open my sewing kit or get ready to craft, you’ll be delighted to use them. Plus, the proceeds support Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, where more than a million migrating Sandhill Cranes stop to rest and refuel every March.
$5; rowesanctuary.org
Uncommon Goods Glass Confetti Hummingbird Feeder
This isn’t your average hummingbird feeder. Made with recycled glass and hand-blown by artisans in Mexico, each one is one-of-a-kind.
$40; uncommongoods.com
Pigeon Post Whimbrel Initial Rubber Stamp
Adorn your letterhead, and all paper in your home, with a birdy initial stamp by former Audubon designer Alex Tomlinson. While you’re there, don’t miss his washi tape and stickers!
$25; pigeonpost.nyc
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Help a birder’s life-list entries, not entrance fees, pile up. This pass grants unlimited access to 2,000 of America’s most stunning natural areas for an entire year. That’s a whole lot of bang for not a lot of buck. Each pass can have up to two “owners,” and children under 16 are always admitted free to national parks and federal recreational lands.
$80; sotre.usgs.gov
The Birdsong Project Jumbo Tote
You will fit a lot in this spacious, heavyweight cotton tote, and the straps are comfortable, too. One Audubon staffer recently used it to lug around a long, rainy day’s-worth of supplies for two people, including umbrellas, rain jackets, snacks, spare shoes, and a change of clothes. The cheery design is the product of a collaboration between the National Audubon Society, the Birdsong Project, and the apparel company Bird Collective, which raises money for bird conservation efforts through its sales.
$25; birdcollective.com
Seka Hills Elderberry Balsamic Vinegar
Ideal for foodies, this vinegar and other food products sold through Tocabe are organic, non-GMO, and made by Indigenous and local farmers.
$14; shoptocabe.com
Beef that Supports Bird Habitat
Go from consumer to conservationist when you give the gift of red meat that bears the Audubon Certified bird-friendly seal. Follow the link below to find ranches, butcher shops, grocers, and online shops that sell products that came from land where, with help from the cows, grasslands are being actively managed to create a mosaic of habitat for birds and biodiversity. Use the map to find nearby retailers and source your steak closer to home.
Prices vary; audubon.org/conservation
Audubon “I Dig Native Plants” Mug
We’re suckers for a pun and an adorable bird illustration. This mug checks both boxes and supports Audubon’s Plants for Birds program. Going for a hat trick? Fill ‘er up is some coffee produced in bird-friendly habitats (now in espresso and medium blends).
$16; audubon.threadless.com
Rite in the Rain Birder’s Journal
Goodbye smeared writing and soggy pages. The waterproof paper of this journal is perfect for taking notes no matter the weather. We can also recommend adding one of the company’s waterproof pens or pencils to go along with it.
$10; riteintherain.com
Vim & Vigr Merino Wool Compression Socks
It’s all in the name for these socks: The graduated compression squeezes the lower limbs just so, increasing circulation and keeping your legs feeling energetic, helping to sustain birders’ enthusiasm for seeking their quarry.
$38; vimvigr.com
Dermatone Mineral Sunscreen Travel Kit
Whether it’s the middle of winter or high summer, no one wants to mar a fantastic day of birding with a sunburn. This mineral sunscreen goes on sheer and doesn’t harm people or the planet.—it’s paraben-free and reef-safe.
$40; dermatone.com
Audubon Membership
The Northern Cardinal is just one of several species available for adoption from Audubon—an ideal gift for helping the avian aficionado on your list do her part for birds and their habitat. Each proud parent receives a plush bird that plays a recording of its song when squeezed, as well as an adoption certificate.
$50, gifts.audubon.org
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All product photos: Courtesy of Manufacturer
We never get paid to endorse any product. Much of the gear here comes in quieter hues to help you blend into the background and increase the odds of adding more birds to your list.
