You may need to begin with the right equipment. A pair of binoculars or a bird spotting telescope will be handy. You do not need to have any of this equipment so don't worry! If you want to recognise a bird, sometimes, the shape of their wings can help you. For example, if you were trying to spot a swift or swallow, the wing shape would be like an arrow. It would also be narrow and slightly pointy. 

        In addition, bird calls could be useful. All bird calls are unique. For instance, parakeets make a high pitched, screeching squawk. If you hear this cry, it may indicate that they are nearby. Also, look out for distinctive markings and the way the bird flies.

       If you spot a bird that soars and rarely flaps, it will most likely be a bird of prey (a bird that glides might not always be a bird of prey as some predator birds hover before diving down to catch their victim). When you look at the markings of a bird like a Black Cap, this creature will have a black head and the face plus the body will be grey. The female has a brownish red cap and the male has a black cap, hence the name 'Black Cap'.