Whether you’re a “wake up to the sound of birds” type, or a “please be quiet I’m trying to sleep” type, we’re all getting a new soundtrack to our Lexington mornings.

Here’s the pitch: Imagine getting out of bed in the morning, sitting out on the patio, or going for a hike. Instead of just a bunch of noise, you hear the songs of warblers and vireos. You could even learn their colors, habits, and favorite foods. The upshot: You should really get into birdwatching.

You could wing it, or…

A little bit of preparation goes a long way — i.e., you don’t need to drop your tax return on binos (although it couldn’t hurt to look).

What might help:

A field guide. Instead of trying to name them all on your own, bring a physical guide like The Birds of Kentucky Guide or an app like Merlin. If you bring your favorite local newsletter, too, we wouldn’t hate it.

Spots. No backyard, no problem. Head to the Lexington Cemetery at 833 W. Main St. to spot a pine siskin or crossbill. Or, hit up Hisle Farm Park at 3551 Briar Hill Rd., for a variety of grassland sparrows + bobolinks.

Bird food. A backyard or window feeder brings the birds to you. Try Wild Birds Unlimited at 152 N. Locust Hill Dr.

Your new best birdie. Local experts + hobbyists will love to show you the ropes. Link up with the Central Kentucky Audubon Society or request to join the Kentucky Birders Facebook Group so you don’t fly solo.

Meet the stars of the show

A baby Great Horned Owl sits proudly. | Photo by Brad Biliter

📍Throughout North America | 🗓️ All seasons | Song

A blue winged Kentucky Warbler sits peacefully in Bowen, Kentucky. | Photo by @bestlife_birding

📍Brushy hillsides | 🗓️ Spring | Song

📍Suburban gardens | 🗓️ Winter | Song

A tufted titmouse sits on a dogwood tree. | Photo by @fclementsjrphotography

📍Woodlands | 🗓️ All seasons | Song

A Great Blue Heron soars over the Bluegrass. | Photo by Amy Wallot

📍Marshes, swamps, shores | 🗓️ Summer | Song