If you’re like many, you probably enjoy taking a break from your busy life to every now and then sit and reflect somewhere in nature -- maybe around a nice body of water, on a nature trail, or at a scenic park. And while you may enjoy nature, spotting unique flower blooms, listening to crashing waves, or even watching birds, you’ve probably recently learned about the term “birding” and curious to learn - what’s this all about?
What is birding?
Birding or birdwatching as it’s sometimes called refers to a community of over 45 million people in the U.S. who enjoy being able to listen to, learn about, see and identify birds. It has become the fastest growing pastime for nature lovers in the nation. While birdwatchers are known to simply appreciate looking at birds, birders are known to take it a step further by enjoying going out to look for birds.
Where to go birding?
There are over 800 species of birds in North America. There are various contributing factors that play a role in the types of birds birders or birdwatchers are able to find in the wild including the geographic locations, weather, and time of day.
Birding can be done in your own neighborhood or any natural habitat. Some birders make special trips around the globe to see specific birds that live in a certain environment to add to their Life List. For example, by taking a tour with Connecting with Birds and Nature, you may observe seasonal birds such as Wood Stork, American White Pelicans, White Ibis, Swallow Tailed Kite, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Bald Eagles, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Osprey, Mississippi Kite, or Loggerhead Shrike.
How to get started birding?
Before you set foot on your first birding adventure, you may want to get your hands on a nice set of binoculars, camera, and download the Audubon Bird Guide App (free), which feature calls, songs, and in-depth info about 810 species.
Birders rely on research studies to help them identify where to go to find the birds of interest. There are also several birding organizations, associations, and clubs across the U.S. to help bird lovers connect to each other and the resources they need to get started on their birding adventures.
As you can see, there’s a lot that has gone into birding, which is why it is known to be a fun and favorite pastime for nature lovers all around. Birds tell us a lot about the health of the environment. If you enjoy nature and watching birds, then you may also enjoy giving birding a try to connect with like-minded people and adventures happening just for people like you.
Connecting with Birds and Nature Tours is privately owned and operated, located on 200 acres of family property in Newbern, Alabama. The land consists of pasture, bottom-land hardwood, creeks, and a 6-mile long nature trail -- all beautiful areas where birders and nature lovers can observe in the natural world to explore, make family-friendly memories, and experience peace of mind away from the stresses and busyness of everyday life. For more information about upcoming events or to schedule a tour, click here.