In general, birds that spend more time on the ground have duller colors. The appearance of a juvenile (young) bird in its first few seasons will vary from the parents' appearance. Male and females of the same species can also vary - usually with the parent that incubates the eggs being the more camouflaged while the other might have more striking colors and markings.

A bird's appearance changes when the feathers molt - which is the slow process of feathers dropping out and being replaced.

While bird watching, try to notice the structure of the beak and feet for bird habit clues. Webbed feet mean you've got a swimmer. Long legs might indicate a wader. Stout curved bills could mean you're looking at a bird of prey, or a meat-eating bird.

The description section will also include notable behaviors and habits.

• Such as flight patterns --the Hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backwards.
• Singing habits --some birds are said to stop singing and refocus when their new hatchlings are ready to feed. Other birds are said to sing until their winter migration.
• Plus other unique or identifying facts.