But you don't need a backyard if you're interested in birdwatching. Once you start noticing birds, you’ll realize how many people are already doing the same. To get started, read on for my best tips on how to start birdwatching, along with supplies you'll need to build your own birdwatching kit. One of the best tools for beginners is Merlin Bird ID , a free app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Merlin’s “Sound ID” feature is especially satisfying: tap the “sound” button and it’ll listen in, and tell you who’s singing.