Binoculars, Spotting Scopes and Tripods for Bird Watching
We recommend you try using binoculars/spotting scopes prior to making a purchase.
We carry the best selection of optics and spotting scopes in Toronto.
We stock optics from eight different companies
Over 70 different binoculars ranging in price from under $100 to $4,500
Over 30 different spotting scopes ranging in price from $250 to over $6,000
Brands:
NOCS Vortex Swarovski Zeiss Nikon Kowa Celestron Kite
Watching birds in your backyard or taking a stroll in the park for a bird/nature walk is an excellent way to unwind and make the most of your leisure time. Observing the behaviour of birds from a distance can be quite rewarding, but there are moments when a pair of binoculars can significantly enhance your experience.
Binoculars aren't solely for "birding hikes," where they're essential for a clear view of a bird perched in a tree several hundred feet away. When observing birds in your backyard, a good pair of binoculars can reveal additional details. They can bring the image of the bird close enough for you to note the distinct markings for accurate identification. Was it an American Goldfinch in its winter plumage or a Pine Siskin at the finch feeder? Even if you're observing a bird that's easily identifiable without binoculars, you might miss the subtler behaviors from afar. For instance, you may have frequently seen a Cardinal at your bird feeder, but have you ever observed how it opens a black oil sunflower seed?
Our store offers a wide range of binoculars suitable for beginners, advanced birders, or those who enjoy birdwatching from their backyards. We provide models in three main sizes: compact, mid-size, and full-size. Within each category, we offer binoculars with 8x and 10x magnification options.
Our birding specialists are here to guide you in selecting the perfect pair of binoculars tailored to your usage plans. We offer assistance in:
- Deciphering the meaning behind all the "numbers" and identifying which ones matter to you
- Finding the pair that best "fits" your face
- Making the necessary adjustments whether you wear glasses or not
- Setting up your binoculars correctly for optimal focus
- Conducting a series of optics quality tests to determine if the binoculars' cost is warranted
Don't be overwhelmed by technical terms and give up on purchasing binoculars. Visit us, and we'll help you make an informed and sensible choice for the right pair of binoculars.
Spotting Scopes
Brands:
Vortex Swarovski Kowa Celestron Kite
With the arrival of the fall/winter season, a spotting scope can significantly enhance your birding experience. Winter offers an excellent opportunity to observe breeding ducks, migrant gulls, and rare seabirds. Venturing to the lakeshore at various parks across the GTA may yield new sightings, although many birds remain distant from the shore. While binoculars allow you to spot birds, even a 10x magnification may only provide blurry details.
Spotting scopes, however, can offer much higher magnifications, up to 60x, bringing distant birds into sharp, full-color view. Our interest in ducks, gulls, and seabirds grew during birding trips at Longpoint's Tip, leading us to transition from the communal "house" scope to purchasing our own. Now, our Lakeshore excursions are incomplete without our spotting scope, which is also invaluable during fall and spring for observing migrating shorebirds along the Lakeshore.
Tripods and Monopods
Brands:
Manfrotto Vortex Celestron Kite