Sorry..bird watcher enthusiasts, like most specialized groups, develop their own lingo. It means the first time you've ever seen a particular bird species.

Very rarely, it might also mean the first time seeing a particular species gender, first time a species is photographed, seen in a particular area, etc., if a person decides to identify/qualify it that way

Now why didn't I think of that? Thanks for clearing it up.

It could also refer to the addiction of bird watching because there's no cure. :>)

i always thought of it as the list of different birds you see and list in your life as a birdwatcher. I whole lifetime of birds and more birds

LOL. Yes, a lifer could be a jail bird?

Oooo Calliope, " lifer could be a jail bird"?
Good one, in a groaning sort of way!
; )

Sorry but I couldn't resist! Marg

I was happy to learn what the term "lifer" means in the world of birdwatching. I guess every walk of life has its own meaning for the word. As was mentioned before, to a convict it could mean one who is doing a life sentence. On the other hand, in the military it refers to one who has chosen the military as a lifelong career. But then, when one gets in the military they find everything is a bit different that what it may appear to a civilian. By example, while the proper term for an NCO is Non-Commissioned Officer, in the military it often means one who has "No Chance on the Outside"..LOL

First sighting, or some would say first time making the I.D. of the species. Certainly Ive seen lots of these birds as a kid but never cared much. But as a serious birder, "lifer" is my first time making a positive I.D.Actually knowing what Im seeing. And caring.
Rob Cassidy
Fort Wayne, Indiana