Most birdwatchers in the field want a small easy to hold and manipulate pair of birding binoculars. On kind of compact binoculars is the Pentax Papilios model. Because they are so lightweight at about ten ounces they are easy to handle. They can get compact down to about 2 inches wide and fit into your pocket or pack. 

They are priced within the reach of most people just over $100. They work best in daylight and dry conditions.These binoculars are not waterproof and they do fog up easily. Remarkably they can focus as close as 18 inches and people like them.