Sometimes, birders become lazy observers. If you’ve ever dismissed an American Robin, then you’ve been there. It’s human nature: Once we think we know what we’re looking at, we mentally fill in the gaps and move on to the next thing. By pushing yourself to record observations in a journal, you will learn to see more and, at the same time, improve your study of birds in the field. A nature journal is a durable, bound notebook where you can document, describe, and explore all your wildlife sightings and nature discoveries. In its simplest form, it is using words, pictures, and numbers to record your observations, questions, and thinking. Journaling is a skill that anyone can learn. It refines your ability to notice details and remember what you see. The practice also helps you develop curiosity and creative thinking. You do not have to be an artist or a naturalist to keep a nature journal, but if you make it a part of your regular birding practice, you will become...