Here's what you need to get started:

• Notepad and pencil (for sketches or journaling)
• Magnifying glass (to examine feathers, and other findings)
• Small shovel or trowel (to uncover interesting things in the soil)
• Jar with lid (to collect tiny creatures for brief observation)
• Shallow pan (to spread soil in while looking for tiny inhabitants)
• Flashlight with red cellophane (red won’t disrupt night vision)

Now you have everything you need to help see, identify and document the plants and creatures in your yard.