Use Binoculars
This guide shows you how to use binoculars while birdwatching, from adjusting the focus to scanning the landscape. Learn the basic parts of your binoculars and how to spot birds more clearly.
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Binocular parts
Neck strap – Lets you hang your binoculars around your neck to avoid drops and keep your hands free.
Eye pieces – Where you look through your binoculars. Many have soft rubber eyecups that can be twisted up or down to reduce glare. If you wear glasses, keep the eyecups folded down.
Diopter rings – This small adjustment (usually on one eyepiece) helps fine-tune the focus if one eye is stronger than the other.
Focus wheel – The central wheel adjusts the sharpness of the image for both eyes. You’ll use this the most while birdwatching.
Objective lens – These are the large lenses at the front of the binoculars. They collect light and help create a bright, magnified image of what you’re looking at.
Setting up your binoculars
Put the neck strap around your neck
This keeps your binoculars safe and accessible.
Adjust your eyecups
Glasses on? Fold the eyecups down. No glasses? Keep the eyecups up to block out extra light.
Focus each eye
Look at a distant object. Close your right eye, and use the focus wheel to sharpen the image for your left eye.
Then close your left eye, and use the diopter ring to focus for your right eye.
Once done, both eyes should see clearly with just the focus wheel.
How to look at birds with binoculars
1. Scan the area with your eyes first
Before lifting your binoculars, look around with your naked eye. Take note of any trees, river bends or other features. Listen for bird calls too - they often give away where birds are.
2. Lift your binoculars without losing your spot
Once you’ve seen movement or colour, keep your eyes fixed on that spot. Raise your binoculars to your eyes without moving your head - just bring the binoculars up to meet your line of sight.
3. Scan with binoculars if needed
If you didn’t spot anything at first, you can scan with your binoculars. Start by focusing on the horizon, then slowly pan across the area. Look for movement, flashes of colour, or familiar shapes.
4. Refine your focus
Use the focus wheel to sharpen the image. This is especially helpful if a bird is hiding among leaves or branches — adjusting the focus can help you “see through” the vegetation.
Do a test
Once you’ve narrowed down your preferences, head to a binoculars shop if you can. Try out a few different pairs - this will help you decide whether you prefer something compact and light, or don’t mind a heavier model with more zoom or brightness.
Podcast episodes
Weekend Birder podcast is here to help you use binoculars.
05 Using Binoculars with Anthony