Birding

Birdwatching or birding is a form of wildlife observation in which the observation of birds is a recreational activity. It can be done with the naked eye, through a visual enhancement device like binoculars and telescopes, by listening for bird sounds or by watching public webcams. 

Birding is a hobby where individuals enjoy the challenge of bird study, listening or other general activities involving bird life. Birding became a hobby in the late 18th century. It was led by a group of four scientist. Before this time birds were watched and looked at as food. The study of birds and natural history in general became increasingly prevalent in Britain during the Victorian Era. 

In the late 19th century the call for bird protection became popular. The Audubon society was started to protect birds from the growing trade in feathers. This trade was popular in the United States and in Britain. The Royal Society for Protection of Birds started in Britain about the same time. 

The early and mid 20th century in the United States seen a popularity in birding in the eastern seaboard region. Ludlow Griscom and Roger Tory Peterson wrote books about birding. Stuffed birds were used to illustrate the beautiful color pictures. 

The Audubon Society stood against such practices. The invention of the car made birding more popular as watchers could now travel. What began as a hobby in developed countries is now incresing in number of watchers in developing countries as well.