I am pretty familiar with the areas that I hunt so, I do not use a flashlight. It probably wouldn' t spook the birds if you keep the beam out of the trees (why would you do that anyway?)

I have seen a product on the Outdoor Channel that is a LED light. It' s primary purpose is to alert other people that may be in the area (stumbling around with loaded guns[&:]). I am not sure if it' s bright enough to " see" where you' re going! I would guess though that if you' re nervous about it, get a penlight and keep the beam on the ground where you' re walking.