>>2893762Apart from camera, just some food and water.
Tripods are too heavy and get caught on everything. Also, they make me miss shots of opportunity. Same with monopods, to a lesser degree.
Only rarely will I use a blind, if I find a perch or signs of a raptor eating. Blinds have fucked me over a few times due to being restrictive, and I always end up abandoning them. Besides, birds are very mobile and it's better to just follow them.
Most birds will have several patterns they will repeat while hunting, so observe them and pick spots along their route that suits the light / angle you want. Look for points to gain some elevation. If it sees you, move to another spot after it is out of sight.
Water is your friend, as well; all animals need it, including the birds themselves and their prey. Look near marshes, and wear good boots.
Just stay as light and mobile as possible, and use cover. Stand under a tree or next to a bush when observing and moving. Usually I just dress is dull colors, but the camo meme is unnecessary unless very close to a perch where they will notice changes in their environment.
If a bird sees you approaching, avoid eye contact and don't keep creeping... just act like you don't care about it. Often I'll turn my back to it to put it at ease before inching closer or backing off and waiting.
Just be calm and patient, really. Accept missing shots constantly, and enjoy being outdoors. Treat the shots like a bonus and not the goal, or you'll get frustrated.
