Birding, the recreational activity of observing and identifying birds in their natural habitats, has gained significant popularity among enthusiasts worldwide. Whether one is a seasoned birder or just starting out, having the right equipment is essential for an optimal birding experience. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Birding Equipment Recommendations that are necessary to enhance your bird-watching adventures.
Imagine yourself standing on the edge of a serene forest trail as the sun rises, eagerly waiting to catch sight of a rare warbler species you have been longing to see for years. Without proper binoculars or a spotting scope with high magnification capabilities, however, even the most vibrant plumage and intricate details may go unnoticed. Thus, it becomes evident that investing in reliable optical devices is crucial for any dedicated birder. Alongside these key tools, other essentials like field guides, cameras with telephoto lenses, and comfortable outdoor clothing contribute significantly to enhancing your overall birding experience.
Moreover, selecting appropriate gear tailored to specific environmental conditions can greatly impact your success rate while minimizing discomfort during long hours spent in nature. Lightweight backpacks designed specifically for carrying optics and personal belongings ensure ease of movement without compromising comfort. Additionally, quality footwear suitable for various terrains helps maintain stability and prevents injuries during long hikes or treks through different types of landscapes.
To further enhance your birding experience, consider investing in a good quality field guide. These guides provide detailed information about various bird species, including their physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and behavioral patterns. They are an invaluable resource for identifying birds in the field and expanding your knowledge about avian life.
If capturing stunning images of birds is your passion, a camera with a telephoto lens is essential. This allows you to capture close-up shots of birds without disturbing them. Look for cameras with fast autofocus capabilities and high-resolution sensors to ensure that you can capture those fleeting moments with precision and clarity.
Lastly, don’t forget to dress appropriately for outdoor excursions. Comfortable clothing made from moisture-wicking materials helps regulate body temperature and keeps you dry during hot or humid conditions. Layering options are crucial for adapting to changing weather conditions throughout the day.
In conclusion, investing in the right birding equipment is essential for an optimal bird-watching experience. Quality binoculars or spotting scopes, field guides, cameras with telephoto lenses, comfortable outdoor clothing, lightweight backpacks, and suitable footwear are all key components of a birder’s toolkit. By equipping yourself with these essentials tailored to specific environmental conditions, you will not only enhance your chances of spotting elusive bird species but also enjoy a more comfortable and rewarding experience in nature. Happy birding!
Essential Gear: Binoculars
Imagine yourself standing in a lush forest, surrounded by the melodic songs of various bird species. You hear a rustling sound nearby and catch a glimpse of vibrant plumage through the dense foliage. To truly appreciate this beauty up close, you need the right equipment – binoculars.
Binoculars are an essential tool for any birder, enabling them to observe birds from afar with clarity and precision. A prime example is Alex, an avid birdwatcher who ventured into the wilderness armed with only his smartphone camera. Despite being equipped with state-of-the-art technology, he struggled to capture clear images due to their limited zoom capabilities. Frustrated, Alex missed out on experiencing the fine details of the avian wonders that crossed his path.
To avoid such disappointment, investing in high-quality binoculars is crucial for every aspiring or seasoned birder. These optical devices magnify distant objects, allowing users to see intricate features like color patterns and feather textures more vividly. Furthermore, they provide a wider field of view compared to spotting scopes or telescopes, making it easier to track moving birds across varying landscapes.
When selecting binoculars for birding purposes, consider these key factors:
- Magnification Power: Higher magnification provides detailed views but may result in shakier images unless paired with image stabilization.
- Objective Lens Diameter: Larger objective lenses gather more light, ensuring brighter images even in low-light conditions.
- Field of View (FOV): A wider FOV enables users to scan larger areas quickly and locate elusive birds more efficiently.
- Weight and Size: Opt for lightweight and compact models that can be carried comfortably during long hikes without causing fatigue.
| Criteria | Recommended Range |
|---|---|
| Magnification Power | 8x – 10x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm – 42mm |
| Field of View | 6.5° – 8.0° |
| Weight and Size | <600g, Compact |
By carefully considering these factors and referring to the recommended ranges listed above, you can make an informed decision when purchasing binoculars. Remember that personal preferences may vary based on individual needs and budget constraints.
In your quest for a more immersive birding experience, the next step is to enhance your view with spotting scopes – powerful optical instruments designed specifically for long-range observation without compromising image quality or portability. So let’s dive into this topic further and explore how spotting scopes can elevate your birdwatching adventures.
Enhance Your View: Spotting Scopes
Moving on from the essential gear of binoculars, let’s now explore another valuable tool that can greatly enhance your birding experience – spotting scopes.
Spotting scopes are powerful telescopes designed for long-range viewing. They provide a more detailed and magnified view compared to binoculars, making them ideal for observing distant birds or studying fine plumage details. To illustrate their usefulness, consider a scenario where you come across an elusive bird perched high on a tree branch during your birding expedition. With a spotting scope in hand, you can easily zoom in and enjoy a crystal-clear view of its intricate feather patterns and subtle colorations.
To help you make an informed decision when choosing a spotting scope, here are some important factors to consider:
-
Magnification Power: Spotting scopes typically have higher magnification capabilities than binoculars. Look for scopes with variable zoom eyepieces that offer both wide-angle views and close-up observations.
-
Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter images and better low-light performance.
-
Field of View: Consider the field of view offered by different models as it determines how much area you can see at once through the scope. A wider field of view is preferable for tracking fast-moving birds or scanning large areas quickly.
-
Tripod Compatibility: Given their size and weight, most spotting scopes require sturdy tripods for stability during prolonged observation sessions. Ensure compatibility between your chosen scope and tripod before making a purchase.
Now let’s delve into these aspects further through the following table:
| Factor | Importance | Recommended Range |
|---|---|---|
| Magnification Power | High | 20-60x |
| Objective Lens | Medium | 65-80mm |
| Field of View | Medium-High | 100-150 ft/1000 yd |
| Tripod Compatibility | High | Compatible |
With the right spotting scope, you can bring distant birds closer and appreciate their beauty in remarkable detail. Incorporating a spotting scope into your birding gear collection will undoubtedly elevate your viewing experience.
Moving forward, let’s now turn our attention to another essential tool for avid birders – field guides that provide valuable references and aid in bird identification.
Reference and Identification: Field Guides
Section Transition:
Having explored the importance of spotting scopes in enhancing your birding experience, let us now delve into another essential tool for avid birdwatchers – field guides. By providing comprehensive information on various species, these references serve as invaluable companions during your expeditions.
Field Guides: Unlocking the World of Birds
Imagine finding yourself surrounded by a lush forest teeming with diverse avian life. You come across an enchanting blue-feathered creature perched high on a branch. Curiosity piqued, you reach for your trusted field guide to identify this elusive beauty; it turns out to be none other than the resplendent Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata). This hypothetical scenario highlights how field guides can transform ordinary sightings into remarkable encounters.
To fully appreciate their significance, consider the following benefits of using field guides:
- Comprehensive Information: Field guides provide detailed descriptions of birds’ physical characteristics, behaviors, habitats, and distribution patterns.
- Species Differentiation: With clear illustrations or photographs accompanied by written details, field guides aid in distinguishing between similar-looking species that may share certain features.
- Range Maps: Many field guides include range maps depicting where specific birds are commonly found during different seasons. These maps help plan excursions to areas where desired species are prevalent.
- Additional Resources: Some field guides offer supplementary sections covering topics such as migration patterns, conservation status, and unique behavioral traits.
While exploring new territories and encountering fascinating feathered creatures brings joy to every birder’s heart, here is a glimpse of emotions evoked through the use of reliable field guides:
- Excitement when identifying a rare or uncommon species previously unseen.
- Confidence gained from recognizing distinct attributes and peculiarities.
- Fulfillment in expanding knowledge about avian life through comprehensive information.
- Sense of accomplishment when successfully locating specific species using range maps.
Emotional Table:
The table below showcases three popular field guides, comparing their features to help you make an informed decision:
| Field Guide | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| “Sibley’s” | Detailed illustrations |
| Seasonal occurrence maps | |
| Comprehensive written descriptions | |
| Compact size for portability | |
| “National Audubon Society” | High-quality photographs |
| Habitat-specific details | |
| Behavior notes | |
| Range maps | |
| “Peterson Field Guides” | Visual identification system (arrowheads) |
| Song recordings | |
| Behavioral traits | |
| Species accounts with detailed range maps |
Capture the Moment: Camera Equipment
As we transition into exploring camera equipment for birding photography, it is important to note that capturing these fleeting moments allows us to cherish them forever.
Capture the Moment: Camera Equipment
Moving on from the essential field guides for birding enthusiasts, we now delve into another indispensable aspect of the hobby – capturing those awe-inspiring moments with camera equipment. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or just starting out, having the right tools at your disposal can greatly enhance your birding experience.
Case Study:
Imagine standing by a tranquil lake, observing an elegant heron gracefully taking flight amidst a colorful sunset. With the ideal camera equipment in hand, you have the opportunity to preserve this ephemeral moment forever. The ability to capture such mesmerizing images not only allows you to relish these experiences long after they occur but also provides invaluable material for research and educational purposes.
Bullet Point List (markdown format):
- Immortalize breathtaking avian encounters
- Enhance research efforts through photographic documentation
- Share captivating visuals with fellow birders and nature enthusiasts
- Foster appreciation for avifauna’s sheer beauty
Table (3 columns x 4 rows; markdown format):
| Camera Type | Features | Recommended Models |
|---|---|---|
| DSLR | Interchangeable lenses | Nikon D850 |
| High image resolution | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV | |
| Compact System | Lightweight | Sony Alpha A7 III |
| Excellent video quality | Fujifilm X-T3 | |
| Bridge | Extensive zoom range | Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II |
| Built-in electronic viewfinder | Nikon Coolpix P900 |
As depicted in the table above, there is a wide array of camera types available to cater to different preferences and skill levels. Each model offers unique features that contribute to producing stunning photographs that truly encapsulate birds’ natural splendor. From high-resolution imagery provided by DSLRs like the Nikon D850 and Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, to the lightweight convenience of compact system cameras such as the Sony Alpha A7 III and Fujifilm X-T3, or the extensive zoom capabilities of bridge cameras like the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II and Nikon Coolpix P900 – there is a camera suitable for every birding enthusiast.
Having explored how camera equipment can elevate your birding experience by capturing captivating moments, let us now turn our attention to ensuring comfort and protection during your outings. In the subsequent section, we will delve into essential clothing and accessories that optimize your overall birding enjoyment.
Comfort and Protection: Clothing and Accessories
Having discussed the importance of capturing high-quality images while birding, it is crucial to ensure that your comfort and protection are also prioritized during this recreational activity. Proper clothing and accessories can enhance your experience in nature while safeguarding you from various elements. Let’s explore the essential recommendations in this regard.
To illustrate the significance of suitable gear when birding, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario where an avid birder, Sarah, embarks on a day-long trip to a coastal habitat teeming with numerous avian species. She wears inappropriate clothing – cotton fabric jeans and a regular t-shirt – which causes discomfort due to their lack of moisture-wicking properties. Additionally, she fails to wear proper footwear, leaving her vulnerable to slipping or twisted ankles on uneven terrain.
To avoid such inconveniences or potential hazards, here are some key recommendations:
- Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester blends or merino wool that keep you dry by wicking away sweat.
- Wear lightweight layers for easy temperature regulation throughout the day.
- Choose durable pants made specifically for outdoor activities that offer mobility and resistance against thorns and insects.
- Invest in sturdy waterproof hiking boots with ankle support for stability on different terrains.
Furthermore, accessorizing appropriately can significantly improve your overall birding experience. Consider incorporating these items into your outfit:
| Item | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Wide-brimmed hat | Provides shade from sunlight | Protects face and neck from harmful UV rays |
| Binocular harness | Distributes weight evenly across shoulders | Reduces strain on neck |
| Insect repellent | Keeps insects at bay | Prevents bites and potential diseases |
| Lightweight backpack | Allows for easy carrying of essentials such as water, snacks, field guide, and extra camera batteries | Enhances mobility and convenience |
In conclusion, choosing the right clothing and accessories is crucial to ensure comfort, protection, and an enjoyable birding experience. By following the recommendations mentioned above, you can optimize your time spent in nature while safeguarding yourself from various elements.
Transition into subsequent section about “Lightweight and Compact: Travel-friendly Gear”:
Moving on from apparel considerations, it’s important to explore lightweight and compact gear options that are travel-friendly yet effective in enhancing your birding adventures.
Lightweight and Compact: Travel-friendly Gear
Imagine standing at the edge of a dense forest, peering through your binoculars in search of a rare bird species. With the right equipment, this experience can be both thrilling and rewarding. In this section, we will explore the essential gear for birding enthusiasts, focusing on binoculars and optics.
When it comes to selecting suitable binoculars for birding, one case study that stands out is Jane’s dilemma. She was torn between two options – a compact pair of 8×25 binoculars and a larger set of 10×42 ones. Ultimately, she opted for the latter due to their superior magnification power and wider field of view. This decision allowed her to spot distant birds with clarity while still maintaining a comfortable grip during long hikes.
To aid you in making an informed choice, here are some key factors to consider when purchasing binoculars:
- Magnification: Higher magnification enables close-up views of distant birds.
- Objective lens diameter: A larger objective lens captures more light, resulting in brighter images.
- Field of view: Wider fields of view allow easier tracking of moving birds.
- Waterproof and fog-proof capabilities: These features protect your investment from environmental conditions.
Now let’s delve into another crucial aspect—the role of optics in enhancing your birding experience. High-quality optics play a significant role in achieving sharpness and vivid color reproduction when observing feathered creatures. To provide maximum visual acuity, specialty lenses such as extra-low dispersion (ED) or high-density glass reduce chromatic aberration—a common issue where colors appear fringed around objects.
Consider these additional elements when evaluating optical quality:
| Element | Definition | Importance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Lens | Determines image clarity | High |
| Coating | Enhances light transmission | Medium |
| Prism | Renders a brighter, sharper image | High |
By investing in binoculars with superior optics, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of birds.
In summary, selecting appropriate binoculars and understanding the importance of advanced Optics will greatly enhance your birding experience. Equipping yourself with optimal gear enables you to spot even the most elusive species while enjoying crystal-clear views. In our next section, we will discuss how to adapt to different environments by exploring all-weather gear suitable for any situation.
Now let’s explore how you can adapt to different environments by equipping yourself with all-weather gear.
Adapt to Different Environments: All-weather Gear
Transitioning from the previous section, where we discussed lightweight and compact birding gear suitable for travel purposes, let’s now turn our attention to equipment that can adapt to different environments and weather conditions. To illustrate this point, consider a hypothetical scenario where you embark on a bird-watching expedition in various locations around the world. In one instance, you find yourself exploring the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, while in another, you venture into the arid deserts of Namibia. To fully enjoy your birding experience in these diverse environments, it is crucial to have all-weather gear that can withstand any condition.
When it comes to selecting appropriate equipment for different environments, here are some key considerations:
-
Durability: Opt for sturdy materials that can withstand rugged terrains and harsh weather conditions. Look for gear made from waterproof or water-resistant fabrics to protect against unexpected rain showers or damp environments.
-
Versatility: Choose equipment that offers versatility in its functionality. For example, select binoculars with adjustable focus settings so you can easily switch between long-distance observation and close-up detail viewing.
-
Adaptability: Ensure your gear has features that allow easy adaptation to changing environmental conditions. This might include removable lens covers or interchangeable eyecups that cater to varying light levels or eye relief preferences.
-
Protection: Invest in protective cases or covers for your equipment when not in use to guard against dust, moisture, and accidental damage during transportation.
To provide further clarity on the selection process based on these considerations, see the table below showcasing examples of adaptable birding gear suitable for specific environments:
| Environment | Recommended Gear |
|---|---|
| Rainforest | Waterproof binoculars |
| Arctic Tundra | Insulated camera bags |
| Coastal Wetlands | Fog-proof spotting scopes |
| Mountain Ranges | Wind-resistant tripods |
By carefully considering these factors and choosing equipment that can adapt to different environments, you will be well-prepared to embark on your birding adventures around the world.
Transitioning into our next section about achieving an optimal viewing experience with high-quality optics, it is essential to understand how superior gear enhances your ability to observe birds in detail.
Optimal Viewing Experience: High-quality Optics
Imagine this scenario: you wake up early on a misty morning, ready to embark on your birding adventure. As you step outside, the chilly breeze sends shivers down your spine. You know that today’s weather might pose challenges for spotting birds in their natural habitat, but with the right equipment, nothing can dampen your enthusiasm.
To ensure an enjoyable birding experience regardless of the weather conditions, it is crucial to equip yourself with all-weather gear. Here are some recommendations:
-
Waterproof Binoculars: Investing in high-quality binoculars that are specifically designed to withstand moisture and rain will enable you to observe birds even during drizzly or foggy days.
-
Weatherproof Clothing: Dressing appropriately is essential when venturing into different environments. Opt for waterproof jackets, pants, and boots that provide insulation while protecting you from rain or snow.
-
Lens Hood and Rain Sleeve: These accessories serve as additional protection for your camera lens against water droplets or fogging caused by changing weather conditions. They help maintain clear visibility and prevent damage.
-
Portable Umbrella/Canopy Tent: A lightweight umbrella or canopy tent can be a great asset when sudden showers catch you off guard during long bird-watching expeditions. It provides shelter without hindering mobility.
With these all-weather essentials at hand, unfavorable weather conditions won’t hinder your birding endeavors anymore. Remember that adaptability is key – just like birds themselves who have evolved unique mechanisms to thrive in various habitats.
| All-Weather Gear | Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof Binoculars | Moisture-resistant coatings protect lenses; sealed construction prevents internal fogging | Clear vision even in wet conditions |
| Weatherproof Clothing | Durable materials repel water; adjustable features allow layering for changing temperatures | Comfort and protection in adverse weather |
| Lens Hood and Rain Sleeve | Shields lens from water droplets; prevents fogging | Enhanced visibility and lens protection |
| Portable Umbrella/Canopy Tent | Lightweight, compact design offering easy setup; waterproof material provides shelter from rain | Stay dry during unexpected showers |
As you equip yourself with all-weather gear, it’s important to remember that nature is unpredictable. The ability to adapt allows us to fully embrace the wonders of birding, regardless of external circumstances. Now, let’s explore how high-quality optics can further enhance your viewing experience.
As we strive for an enhanced viewing experience through optimal optics, it is equally crucial to keep our equipment organized. “.
Stay Organized: Gear Storage Solutions
Imagine this scenario: You wake up before dawn, ready to embark on a birding adventure. As you gather your binoculars and spotting scope, you realize that some of your essential gear is missing or disorganized. Frustration sets in as precious moments slip away, potentially costing you the chance to spot rare avian species. To avoid such mishaps and ensure a smooth birding experience, it is crucial to have effective gear storage solutions in place.
One popular solution for organizing birding equipment is a dedicated backpack or bag specifically designed with compartments and pockets tailored to accommodate different items. This allows for efficient organization and easy access during outings. Imagine having everything neatly arranged – your field guides, camera lenses, extra batteries, snacks, and water bottle all within reach when needed. With a well-designed gear storage bag, you can focus on enjoying the birds rather than scrambling to find misplaced essentials.
To further enhance organization and convenience, consider investing in smaller accessory cases or pouches. These compact organizers are perfect for storing memory cards, lens filters, cleaning supplies, and other small but important tools required during birding excursions. By utilizing these additional storage options within your larger gear bag, you can keep everything segregated based on size or purpose – keeping similar items together aids efficiency while reducing clutter.
In addition to bags and cases, another practical storage solution is using carabiners or clips to attach frequently-used items like gloves or hats directly onto your backpack straps or loops. This simple yet clever hack ensures quick access without needing to rummage through compartments every time you need an item readily available at hand.
Gear storage solutions not only provide organizational benefits but also contribute towards preserving the lifespan of expensive birding equipment by protecting them from damage caused by improper handling or exposure to harsh elements. By taking proper care of your gear through appropriate storage practices, you extend its longevity and maximize its functionality, ensuring years of joyful birding experiences.
Transition into the next section: Extend Your Reach: Tripods and Mounts
Extend Your Reach: Tripods and Mounts
Having discussed effective solutions for storing your birding gear, let us now explore another essential aspect of birding equipment – tripods and mounts. These tools are designed to provide stability and precision when observing birds in their natural habitats.
To illustrate the importance of tripods and mounts, imagine you spot a rare species perched atop a tall tree branch during one of your birdwatching excursions. Without stable support, capturing clear images or making accurate observations becomes challenging. However, with the aid of a tripod-mounted camera or spotting scope, you can maintain steady focus on the subject while minimizing hand tremors caused by fatigue or excitement.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting tripods and mounts:
-
Stability:
- Look for sturdy materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum alloys.
- Consider the weight capacity suitable for your equipment setup.
- Opt for models with adjustable leg angles to accommodate uneven terrains.
-
Portability:
- Choose lightweight options that won’t burden you during long hikes.
- Foldable designs should fit comfortably into your backpack or carry-on luggage.
-
Height Adjustability:
- Ensure the tripod’s maximum height aligns with your preferred viewing level.
- Check if it offers customizable leg extensions to adapt to varying environments.
-
Compatibility:
- Verify compatibility between your camera, spotting scope, or binoculars with different mounting systems (e.g., quick-release plates).
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a tripod and mount combination that enhances your overall birding experience. Remember, investing in high-quality equipment is worthwhile as it contributes significantly to overcoming challenges encountered while observing and photographing birds in the wild.
Now that we have explored how tripods and mounts can enhance your birdwatching endeavors, let us delve into another crucial aspect of birding equipment – binocular harnesses and straps. These field-friendly essentials play a vital role in ensuring comfort, convenience, and easy access to your binoculars during long hours of observation without causing strain or discomfort.
Field-friendly Essentials: Binocular Harnesses and Straps
Imagine yourself perched on a hillside, scanning the horizon with your binoculars for that elusive bird species you’ve been yearning to spot. As you try to steady your hands against the wind, frustration sets in as the image through your binoculars remains shaky and blurred. This is where tripods and mounts come into play – essential tools that provide stability and enhance your birding experience.
One example of their importance can be seen in the case of Sarah, an avid birder who embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Costa Rica. Equipped with her high-quality binoculars, she faced challenges while trying to observe tropical birds amidst dense foliage. It was only when she invested in a sturdy tripod paired with a versatile mounting system that Sarah’s encounters became more rewarding, enabling her to capture detailed images and take notes without compromising stability.
To fully appreciate the significance of tripods and mounts, consider the following benefits:
- Stability: A stable platform allows for precise focusing and eliminates hand tremors caused by fatigue or environmental factors.
- Extended Observation Time: By relieving strain on your arms and shoulders, tripods enable longer periods of uninterrupted viewing.
- Optimal Angles: Adjustable legs and heads allow you to position your equipment at varying heights and angles, facilitating comfortable observation even from challenging vantage points.
- Photography Support: With compatible camera adapters or smartphone mounts, tripods open up opportunities for capturing stunning photographs or videos during your birding adventures.
In addition to these compelling reasons, let us delve deeper into some popular tripod options available in the market today:
| Tripod Model | Features | Price Range (USD) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vortex Optics Pro GT | Aluminum construction; three-way pan head; quick-release plate | $80 – $100 |
| 2 | Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 | Carbon fiber build; adjustable center column; twist-lock legs | $300 – $400 |
| 3 | Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 | Travel-friendly design; lightweight carbon eXact tubes | $600 – $700 |
| 4 | Sirui T-025SK | Compact aluminum construction; ball head with panoramic function | $150 – $200 |
By carefully selecting a tripod that suits your needs and budget, you can greatly enhance your birding experience. Remember to consider factors such as durability, weight, and ease of setup when making your choice.
In conclusion, tripods and mounts are indispensable accessories for serious birders seeking stability and precision in their observations. Investing in these tools not only ensures an enjoyable outing but also opens up possibilities for capturing breathtaking photographs or videos. So why settle for shaky images? Extend your reach and elevate your birding adventures by adding a reliable tripod or mount to your essential equipment list.
Comments are closed.