Target Birding Made Easy
Serious birders know that a trip requires planning. You need a travel birding checklist of "target birds"—species you haven't seen yet or are unique to that destination.
Instead of fumbling through a full field guide, print a curated list of just the birds you are hunting for. This keeps you focused and efficient in the field.
How to Use for Travel
Research your destination on eBird or local guides. Copy the list of potential "lifers" (birds you've never seen) and paste them into the "Paste Text" tab of our tool.
Format it with 2 or 3 columns and print a few copies. Keep one in your car, one in your bag, and one at your lodging to update your progress daily.
The Satisfaction of the Tick
There is nothing quite like physically checking off a bird you traveled hundreds of miles to see. A printed list serves as a wonderful souvenir of your trip long after you return home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan a birding trip and create a target species list?
Research your destination using eBird's Explore feature or local birding guides to identify species you haven't seen yet ("lifers"). Copy this list and paste it into our tool using the "Paste Text" tab. Format it with 2-3 columns and print several copies—keep one in your car, one in your field bag, and one at your lodging to track your progress daily.
What should I include on a birding trip checklist?
Focus on target species unique to your destination—birds you're unlikely to see at home. Include endemic species, regional specialties, and personal lifers. You can also create a separate gear checklist for binoculars, field guides, camera, batteries, sunscreen, and other essentials using the same tool.
How do I organize my bird sightings during a multi-day trip?
Print multiple copies of your target list—one for each day or location. Date each sheet and note the specific site. At the end of each day, transfer your checks to a master list. This creates both a field record and a wonderful souvenir of your journey that you can reference for years.