Petra's post reminded me that you all would be the perfect resource for info on spotting scopes. Watching shorebirds move into flooded rice fields sounds like great fun! Hubby is not a birder, but he's willing to buy a scope. He loves wildlife watching in Yellowstone. Obviously, for me, the only point in having a scope is for birds. We don't want to spend mega bucks but the one recommended by Eagle Optics seemed a good option for us. It's the Vortex Razor HD 20-60 x 85 angled spotting scope. Currently $1,600 and we have a heavy tripod we can use. Any other suggestions? We're complete novices. Pat Wight Rockport Edit your Freelists account settings for TEXBIRDS at //www.freelists.org/list/texbirds Reposting of traffic from TEXBIRDS is prohibited without seeking permission from the List Owner