Original story published by Kidsday, in Newsday 
June 28, 2016 by Anna DiTucci

Bird-watching is a great experience, especially on Long Island. It is one of my favorite hobbies. It could be your next new favorite hobby, too. If you are still reading, you are obviously interested. If you want to bird-watch you will need several things.

First, you will need bird books to observe and identify them. Second, you will need to get a notebook and a pencil for drawing the bird. And lastly (this is optional), you will need some binoculars.

After you get your supplies, you will need to go to a local bird-watching site or your local park. After you do, be respectful of other bird-watchers. Also be quiet. You do not want to scare the birds away.

Bring something for the birds. Birdseed should do the trick, but be careful. Don’t put your finger in front of the birds while feeding them. They may bite you. (It happened to me.)

Be careful with the birds. Don’t go near a nest or disturb them. You could put yourself or the birds in danger.

Lastly, have fun. You don’t need to be a professional bird-watcher. The best time to go is in the late afternoon. Many birds come out then.

The places that I like to go on Long Island are Hallockville Museum Farm, Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center, Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve and your own backyard. Bird-watching is a great hobby.