In the Bag

A field bag is one of the most basic birding supplies but it is often overlooked, even though it can make birding much easier. I finally purchased my own field bag at a thrift store over the weekend: a canvas camouflage print bag with one large interior pocket and a small exterior pouch.

It’s the perfect size and easily holds my favorite field guide, binoculars, digital camera and a notebook for jotting down observations. Because it’s used, it is already nicely worn so the fabric flows easily and it is comfortable to carry. By purchasing a used bag, I’m also able to practice a bit of resource conservation that will help preserve birds’ habitat by minimizing landfills.

But the best part is inside the bag: the small feather I found. Perhaps it’s an omen: this bag is meant for a birder.