Though the terms “birdwatcher” or “birder” are often considered synonymous, don't tell that to a birder. A birder is apt to nurture a long bird list, and is willing to suffer inclement weather and travel distances to see that rare or possibly “life” bird.

Head to the nearest park—especially during the spring and fall when birds are on the move—and bird watch there. “City parks can be amazing places to bird because they act like an oasis in a sea of concrete,” Merritt says.

Targeting US States with the most bird species diversity So, based off the species diversity map, the Texan Gulf Coast, California and Arizona are the top three hotspots with up to 250 species each. These states should be top of your destination priority if you want to make serious progress with your life list.