Good quality binoculars show a much larger and colourful image and allow wildlife to be viewed at a distance without disturbance.
For the Lee Point savanna habitat, a lot more bird species can be seen/identified (with binoculars) in an hour than a rainforest because it is much more open.
Having open areas with many bird species present means seeing lots of birds, however, having binoculars allows them to be seen clearly, refer Fig 2.
Binoculars for Lee Point?
For Lee Point, as a first set we suggest a basic 8×42 waterproof binocular.
Reason – they are easy to focus (or should be), produce a bright image, have a wide field of view, and being waterproof should not be affected by humidity/moisture.
Fig 1. Our pick in early 2024, from Darwin CBD stores, was a 8×42 Bushnell H2O Waterproof Binocular – cost $230.
Basic waterproof sets are generally purged with a gas then sealed to prevent fungal growth on the lens (fogging), and should last at least 5 years. The most expensive binoculars produce crystal clear images and can last a lifetime (but cost up to $3000).
Cheap non-waterproof binoculars are not recommended for Darwin because fungal growth (due to humidity) can quickly obscure the lens.
Further information
MAGNIFICATION – The “8” in the 8×42 means 8 times magnification ie. the image size at 10m (without binoculars) would be the same at 80m (with binoculars).
Fig 2. The image on the right has been magnified approx. 8x
10x binoculars provide a more detailed view of a bird (for ID purposes). However, 8x results in less shake and a wider field of vision, making them easier to use.
OBJECT LENS – The “42” in the 8×42 stands for 42mm diameter and refers to the diameter of the object lens (closest to the object being viewed).
A larger object lens performs better because it provides a wider field of vision and brighter images (lets more light in). The larger (basic waterproof) sets are easier/faster to focus. All of which makes it easier to find and view wildlife.
The drawback with the larger object lens is higher cost and weight.
For more general info try: https://opticsmag.com/binocular-magnification-chart/
MAINTENANCE – tips for basic waterproof sets
- Do not drop them on hard surfaces. The lens is glued in and cannot be readjusted.
- Take care not to scratch the lens, glass is easily scratched.
- Cleaning a lens can be done the same as a pair of spectacles. Alternatively, gently rub some dishwashing solution onto the lens with your finger and rinse off (Darwin tap water is fine) – works on sunglasses as well.
- Keep the caps on when not in use – it is worth glueing the cap assembly onto the binoculars to prevent loss of caps.
OTHER OPTIONS
A basic 8×25 waterproof set (or similar) is worth considering if you are on a tight budget or hiking where size and weight matters. They are about half the weight and cost of a 8×42 set but don’t perform as well (see OBJECT LENS above).