Just What Is Birding, Anyways?

By: MIKE SELVON

Anyone can get involved in birding. Also known as bird watching in most areas, this activity is open to people of all experience levels and physical abilities. For many, birding represents an opportunity to be outside, to enjoy nature, and to enjoy the company of people who have similar interests. Still others find a sense of accomplishment by being involved in something that is pro-actively encouraging the preservation of our planet.

Beginners, or those new to birding, will find that more experienced and knowledgeable bird watchers are more than eager and willing to pass on whatever skills and methods that they may have acquired themselves. Bird watchers do not tend to be a selfish bunch and are quite happy to see everyone enjoying the day. The accessibility of the activity often surprises those who are just developing an interest in birding. One can have some great bird watching experiences right in his or her own back yard!

Of course, any activity that welcomes new hobbyists or participants must have veterans who make them feel welcome and who are willing to pass on what they know. Veteran bird watchers often take as much pleasure teaching and guiding newcomers as they do in their own bird watching activities.

Ultimately, this necessary relationship between rookie and veteran bird watchers is vital to the continued growth of the movement. There is much more at stake than just recruiting new folks to join us in going to a bird watching destination. Driving the very core of the conservation movement that protects the habitats where the birds nest, feed, and live is people who have a passion for birdiing. In order for this passion to stay alive, and thus conservation efforts, there must be an ever growing and on going relationship between those who know and those who wish to learn.

The birds stand to gain the most out of these relationships that exist within the bird watch community. Ultimately, this must be about more than just us and our own passions and hobbies. It must be about the protection of habitat and the preservation of the things in this world that are beautiful.

The importance of this mandate is clearly stated in the first point of the Code of Birding Ethics. Point 1(a) reads, "Support the protection of bird habitat." It is no small thing that this is the first ethic listed. Those who stand as icons and leaders within the birding community recognize that, without a conservation mindset, the future is bleak, not only for bird watchers, but for the birds as well.

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Mike Selvon is the owner of various niche portals. Our bird feeder portal is a great resource for more information bird watching.