A Beginner’s Guide To A China Birding Tour: Tips and Essentials

Birding in China is definitely one for the bucket list. The diverse landscapes come with the enticement of being able to observe over 1,400 species of birds, including some of the rarest and most elusive in the world. It’s pretty apparent why China remains one of the top destinations for birders worldwide.

As a first time visitor, signing up for a China birding tour is your best bet. While many enthusiastic and more seasoned birders prefer going solo, an organized tour gives you better chances of learning more about the local habitats of the rare endemics. The prospect of birding in China for the first time, with or without the help of a guided tour, can be overwhelming. So, here’s a simple guide that covers all the essentials that you need to know.

Choose the Right Season for Birding

Almost every birding tour in China recommends the spring and autumn seasons because these are the prime seasons for bird migration. During spring, the weather is mild. That means discomfort due to weather conditions won’t be an issue. Meanwhile, in autumn, the birds prepare for long journeys south. So, these two seasons are the best to view resident and migratory species.

Pick the Right Birding Location

China isn’t lacking when it comes to diverse locations where you can spot rare birds. Here are some lop locations and the birds you can view there –

• Poyang Lake – Siberian Cranes and White-naped Cranes
• The Tibetan Plateau – The Tibetan Snowcock and the Black-necked Crane
• Hainan Island – The Hainan Partridge and the Grey-headed Parrotbill
• Zhalong Nature Reserve – The Siberian Crane and the Whooper Swan

Book a local guide who knows the area well. They’ll be able to help you find the nooks and crannies where some birds love to hide.

Essential Birding Gear

Having the right gear can make your birding tour all the more rewarding. Here’s a list of things you should prepare before setting out on your tour –

• A pair of 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars
• A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a 300mm or 400mm telephoto lens
• A birding field guide specific to China
• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warmer regions and insulating layers for cooler mountainous areas
• Comfortable and waterproof hiking boots
• An insect repellent

If you want to ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience these are some of the must-essentials that you can’t miss out on.

Travel Essentials

Birding essentials aside, you have to keep in mind that you’re going on a prolonged birding tour. Some might even last more than 2 weeks. Besides, you’re going to be travelling across China probably for the first time in your life. In that case, here are some basic travel essentials you require –

• Visa and travel documents
• A phrasebook or a translation app
• A local birding guide

Here’s a pro tip – Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.

Stay Healthy During Your Tour

A successful birding tour isn’t one where you can get to view hundreds of rare endemics. It’s one where you can view those endemics and return home safe and sound. In the enthusiasm for your first China birding tour, don’t forget to prioritize your health. Always carry a first-aid kit with you and make sure to bring any personal medications that you have. Try to avoid tap water and keep bottled water on you.Finally, if you’re planning to explore high altitudes, take precautions against altitude sickness.

Exploring the diverse ecosystems on your birding tour in China is bound to be an enriching experience. You can make this more rewarding by preparing for it well. Know the right season to visit, pack all essentials and take the help of local guides. Make the trip worth every while.