Calling All Birders
Do you like to birdwatch? If you do, you're not alone.
Most people tend to think of birdwatching as an activity for retirees. But this is not true.
In fact, a 2016 survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revealed that 38.5 million Americans over the age of 16 were regular birdwatchers around their homes.
Why is this of any interest?
Well, this weekend is the annual Great Backyard Bird Count. It's a fun activity that anyone in the world can participate in.
And it is on right now from February 17-20, 2023.
So grab your binoculars, get out in nature and see what you can spot!
All you need to do is watch birds in your specific location for at least 15 minutes, note how many of any particular species you see and submit your checklist.
The goal is to help scientists understand bird populations so that they can help to protect them.
As you submit your lists, you can also check-in to see what others are viewing in their locations in live time.
If you enjoy photography, you can also submit your birdwatching pictures...and see what others are sharing.
I'm a self-proclaimed bird nerd and this is one activity I do every year. So today I spent a fair bit of time filling my backyard feeding stations and watching the magic of my feathered visitors.
The eclectic mix of birds dined on specialty seeds, suet blocks, freeze-dried mealworms, corn on the cob and peanuts in the shell.
It never gets old for me. There's always something cool to see. And the flurry of activity is seriously amusing...especially when the squirrels decide to barge into the action. That's when you get to see who's really running the roost.
Just today alone, I had over 12 species including woodpeckers, nuthatches, jays, cardinals, goldfinches, doves and juncos. Tomorrow, I hope to see more.
So, if you enjoy birding, this is the weekend to get outside and record what you see.
You'll not only have a lot of fun, but you'll also be providing an important service to scientists.
Happy birding!
Susan
Recent Comments
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I enjoy birdwatching - waterfowl, raptors and yard birds. My most interesting experience was with a great grey owl. I built a nest for it (as instructed on the internet) and it came back 5 years while we lived in the house. It would fly 3 fence posts ahead when we walked on our country road. It would move from tree to tree by the house to look through our windows. Great fun and so majestic.
Wow! Thats a great story, Jim. How lucky you had that experience. Owls are incredible. I’ve only seen a few. That would have been amazing. Thanks so much for sharing. 🦉
I have to admit that I am a huge fan of watching beautiful birds and what they get up to Susan!
Unfortunately, living in a city, the species found here in our communal garden are limited!
It's mainly pigeons, with a few blackbirds and magpies!
But, when I used to live in the countryside growing up back in the UK, I was always fascinated by the birds of prey along with my personal favourite... the hummingbird!
Happy twitching my friend and enjoy the rest of your weekend!
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Hi Nick! Thanks so much for sharing that. I guess it’s harder to view in the city, as you say. I’m glad to hear you share this wonderful past time as well. I too absolutely adore hummingbirds, I shall be neck deep in viewing this weekend. Have a great Sunday!
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You're very welcome Susan, and yes... in the city is a lot different from the countryside!
Have a fantastic time my friend!
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Thank you for the information!
I love bird watching and here in South Central Texas, we get a lot of migratory species.
Yesterday, I saw a flock of Cedar Waxwing - about 17 - before they flew off.
Very exciting to spot uncommon species!
I use my trusty field guide to ID, but I also found an app - Smart Bird ID - that lets you ID by photo or will "listen" to the bird's song to ID.
Thank you for this article!
Thanks for your feedback! It’s most appreciated. I too enjoy watching especially during migration. You must see a lot of species there. Every so often in the spring I’ll see the waxwings. They are gorgeous. Love the photo! That app is helpful…it really helps you learn the types and calls. Happy birding! 🕊️🦉
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Hi, Susan
I didn’t participate in this but I love birdwatching, as a casual observer.
I’ll bet that’s a great affiliate marketing niche for someone like you, and it wouldn’t surprise me if you already have a site. 😎
Frank 🎸
Hi Frank! Always nice to hear from you. I’m glad that you enjoy the beauty of birds as well. It never tiring for me. Maybe I’ll have to try making a site. Have a great day! 🎸😎