Colors are probably the most noticeable field marks for birds, but it is also important to note where the color is placed. Many birds have a colored head, throat, breast, or rump. Often the colors are in distinct patterns like streaks, bars, or spots. Many songbirds have contrasting wing bars, lines of white or another color created by the colored tips of certain wing feathers. Other birds may have white on the tail sides or on the tip of the tail.
Most birds prefer a specific habitat for feeding or nesting.
Waterfowl prefer lakes or rivers. Robins frequent woodlands and grassy lawns. It is also important to notice where in the habitat the bird is. The song is used to attract a mate or declare a territory and usually consists of multiple notes, while a call is one or at most a few short notes often used to stay in contact with other birds. Using what you observed, browse through a field guide and try to find a photo or illustration of a bird that resembles yours.