The Beginnings of Birding

Birds! One natural progression of hiking out in nature has been an interest in the feathered ones all around the areas in which I roam.

“Birds to me are a wonderful sight, no other existing experience to me comes close. The definition of a good life is waking up nice and early to view them flitting around the marsh. It’s a wonder that birds have their own agenda, and we are very privileged observers of their world. Fleetless moments are abound wherever! Whether this is the calmness of watching them preen in the pond, to walking around with their babies, to a male and female perched next to each other. All times of year and season bring forth joy in viewing their intricate lives.”

The beauty in what is is in their accessibility. Birds are practically everywhere! You can travel to not too far locations to view them, or you can bring them to your backyard with birdseed and suet. There is room for everyone to enjoy them.

Everyone who is interested in birding has that “spark bird.” The one or several species that got them interested in this activity. I might have several, particularly larger ones like Great Blue Herons and Red Shouldered Hawk, and then smaller ones like a Ruby Throated Hummingbird. Practically anytime I get to view a new species I am awestruck. Plus, it is addicting to check them off your life list. With so many out there, it is impossible to get bored!

I was already taking up photography when I realized that birds are the most abundant wildlife in Ohio, so it only made sense to study and then photograph them. Purchase or borrow some field guides and read up on all that you can. I have a collection of the free Ohio Division of Wildlife booklets that are nicely laid out for common birds, raptors, waterfowl, warblers and owls.

Simply put, we are here today because birds are. Many birds migrate twice a year due to climate and temperature changes. Because of this birds are an important indicator of climate change and will move to hotter/colder climates depending on their preference. Help them out by setting up birdseed feeders in your backyard. This will help the local residents with finding food and certain migratory songbirds will appreciate the rest stop to feed. On top of that you can enjoy some close views of their amazing colors.

Another beautiful aspect of birding is the communal approach, birding is a worldwide language! We are all in this together and so find a group or forum to exchange details and tips. Rare bird hotlines and alerts can be set up for your county or region, and local groups such as this Facebook one for Miami Valley Birding have helped me so much in learning about what’s outside my doorstep. Explore the resources around you then explore the world!

So grab the binoculars, spotting scope, and maybe a camera.

As always, make sure to get out there!

Happy birding!

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