Bird watching, often called birding, is the study of avian species through the use of binoculars, telescopes and other visual enhancements. It can also be done by listening to bird calls or by simply watching the birds. Since the majority of bird species are more easily detected by listening than by watching, auditory components are used more often.

Ornithologists typically engage themselves in bird watching because of their scientific study, but many birdwatchers pursue birding simply for the fun of it. For everyone else, bird watching is a leisure activity that is somewhat social and educational.