Bags and accessories

Headlamps and torches for owling

Our verdictUse a headlamp with red mode for walking and a moderate torch, used briefly, for viewing night birds.

Night birding is exciting and delicate. Owls, nightjars and frogmouths are easily disturbed, so use light sparingly: find the bird by sound, take a brief look, and switch the light off.

Many reserves have their own rules on spotlighting and playback at night; follow them, and go with a local guide where you can.