Field Of View of Bird Watching Binoculars
Binoculars are devices used for numerous reasons and one of them is bird watching. Bird watching is considered as a hobby and these individuals usually use binoculars specially built for bird watching. There are certain aspects that one needs to consider before purchasing a pair of bird watching binoculars and field of view is one of the most important among these aspects.
Without any object blocking our field of vision we can see everything that is available in front of our faces. Our vision generally covers an angle of approximately 170 degrees as it is bound only by the sky above, ground below and horizon in front. Our vision and eyes are extremely sensitive to colour and motion, which means that when we look around we are automatically attracted towards moving or colourful objects. Thus, the object remains roughly centred and in view.
However, when using binoculars the situation changes, our field of view is limited. Since, our view is restricted to just a cone which allows one to view only through an angle of 5 to 8 degrees.
How to buy one for bird watching
An 8x binocular offers a wider field of view rather than a 10x one. Since, one first needs to spot a bird to observe it; a wide field of view makes it possible for individuals to spot the bird easily, after which they can focus on the bird. With a wider field of view, even with branches blocking one’s view, one is able to spot the bird with ease.
A 10x magnification pair is able to zoom in on an image and show much better details; however, spotting a bird through this pair is quite daunting. One might only be able to see a part of it due to the magnification, and it might be difficult to recognize it as a bird at first with only a part visible.
Design of the eyepiece is the only factor contributing to calculation of field of view. It is not determined or affected by size of the objective lens, thus one needs to learn about designs so that he/she is able to make the right choice regarding field of view while purchasing a pair of binoculars for bird watching.