Definition:

(noun) A cumulative record of bird species that have been positively identified and seen by individual birders. Most birders prefer to record only birds they have observed in natural habitats, and many birders arrange birding tours and travel to local and regional festivals to see more species to add to their life lists. Differences within species, such as male and female birds, are not generally recorded.


Many field guides offer species checklists as an appendix that birders can use to record their life lists. Some birders also prefer to keep life list records in a birding journal or online blog. Additional lists may be kept for backyard birds, rare birds, state birds and other specialized categories.

Also Known As: Life Record