How do I Identify Birds by Their Silhouette? (1 Viewer)

I was wondering "How do I identify birds, even if I could only see their silhouette?" I have had trouble with this problem in the past and I have decided to seek help. Please private message or reply the comment!

It is a case of practice and familiarity. Looking at wing shape, ratio of the wing inboard and outboard of the elbow, number of "fingers", tail length in proportion of body, projecting toes etc. There are lots of factors that weigh into the shape of the silhouette. Some bird guides give descriptions and illustrations of silhouettes, particularly with soaring birds of prey, but it is a case of studying those features on birds you can ID by other means and getting familiar with them.

There aren't really any shortcuts to "time served".

To add to Mono's excellent answer - also look for head to body proportions, beak size and shape, posture, and behavior.

ChiGuy,

The Peterson field guides have long had, in the inside back and/or front covers, silhouettes of many species of birds to help birders focus on shapes. Seeing them grouped together should help you note the distinguishing features.