An overview of bird web sites

ian wood is looking for good bird web sites for a 10 year old. The AnswerBank's Animals and Nature section is obviously a good starting point for posting questions and searching the archive for interesting articles about birds.

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Another good starting point is Birding with Bill Oddie, a site that accompanies a television programme of the same name.

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The 'beginners guide' makes suggestions on what equipment you'll need when getting started, how to attract birds into your garden and how to identify them once they're there. For the really keen the 'Further Information' section gives you the opportunity to buy, for �5.00, a Bill Oddie action pack.

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Also have a look at the Young People's Trust for the Environment, which has an excellent section on how to make bird boxes at home or at school.

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Q.� And are there any others

A.� The BBC has an excellent site for bird enthusiasts of all ages.

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Q.� What kinds of things does it feature

A.� As well as links to relevant BBC radio and television programmes it also directs the surfer to current news items.

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Of particular interest to youngsters are the 'things to do' sections, where you can get tips on bird feeding, or other seasonally appropriate suggestions.

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The site also has a competition and quiz section where you can brush up your avian knowledge. For the interactive element, have a look at the message boards. There are also an images and factfile section, weekly feature and web cam.

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Q.� What about a specialist bird terminology site

A.� Jargon can be a major stumbling block when starting to get interested in a subject, especially for the younger enthusiast. Fortunately Bird On offers both a dictionary and encyclopaedia so that you can decipher even the most obscure phrases. You can also read up on descriptions of birds in the bird book section to help you identify a species that may have been stumping you.

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Q.� What about if I want to get involved in a local group

A.� Have a look at the regional offices of the RSPB in 'the closer to you' section. Along with all the top quality sections you'd expect from one of the UK's leading bird charities the site also runs competitions and has details of bird reserves.

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Do you have a bird web site you'd like to recommend Click here to add it.

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by Lisa Cardy