A Western bird flies through your garden, and it makes you all curious. It doesn't look like any bird you've seen before. But what species is it? What order does it belong to?

Recognizing bird species is tough for new and experienced birders alike. Different birds have different plumage and these could change in spring, summer, winter, or between genders. Plus, birds molt - so don't feel too bad if you can't peg the identity of every bird that flies by. Here are some tips to help you figure out what flying, little critter is in your backyard.

1. Examine the Western bird.

Do this as discreetly as you can. Work your way from the tip of its beak and back. Take note of the bird's size, color, shape, and plumage. Pay attention to its food source, sounds, habitat, and behavior. Make notes if you can. If you can't, memorize as many details as possible.

2. Don't look at your field guide just yet.

Don't flip through your guide until you're dead certain you fully know your bird. Birds tend to look alike. If you flip through your guide before you've gotten to know your bird thoroughly, odds are you will end up pointing to the wrong species.

3. When you do look at your field guide, don't settle on the first species you find.

Many birders call this the first page syndrome. If you're new to birding, you may be tempted to peg the first illustration you see as "your" bird. It may not be. So, go over the guide, look for birds that look like the one you saw, and then tick each one off your list by process of elimination.

Finally, don't forget to consider the Western bird's range. Birds - even migratory ones - rarely show up in areas that are not within their range. So if you live in Chicago or anywhere near it, it's less likely you will see a Hepatic Tanager - it's the Summer Tanager that thrives in the area. Easy peasy, isn't it? Keep this last tip in mind - it'll help you rule out the many birds on the guide that look precisely like the bird you just saw!