Add to this list a decent pair of binoculars. It’s really hard to find more than the common (albeit lovely)birds in your backyard without a pair. But you don’t have to spend tons of money on them. A good pair can go about $100–150, so no need to spend $1,000 or more. Look for 7X35 or 8X40, as far as the lenses go.

Happy Birding!