Guest post by Robert Andreucci
Arborist Representative, Hilton Head, South Carolina
Bird watching, or birding if you want to sound like you’ve been doing it forever, is a great hobby that asks almost nothing from you and gives back a surprising amount. You don’t need to go beyond your backyard. Further, you don’t need expensive gear or hours of time. You just need curiosity and patience. Plus, you’ll want to know where to look and listen.
I started my ornithology journey when I was in college. At the time, I was studying forest biology and my emphasis was in dendrology, the science of trees. One summer while, at SUNY ESF’s Cranberry Lake Biological Station, I heard sounds nearby that I hadn’t stopped to listen to before. That reflective moment eventually turned into a pattern: I began noticing birds everywhere.
Why bird watching is so effective in our busy world
1. It slows you down and trains your attention. You start to recognize things: shapes, sounds, and behaviors.
2. It turns ordinary places into something to enjoy. For example, a parking lot with a few trees suddenly becomes “a spot.”
3. It’s endlessly seasonal. New seasons brings new birds!
What you need to start?
You can begin with nothing but your eyes and ears. That said, a few simple tools make it more fun.
1. A pair of binoculars are optional, but helpful.
2. An ID app or field guide. There are many great ones. The Merlin App is great. Personally, I love the feel of a real, printed field guide. Peterson’s is the one I use.
3. A small notebook for tracking your discoveries.
Make your home more bird-friendly
You don’t need a big yard to attract wildlife. Water helps more than food. A small dish refilled daily works well. Be purposeful about the plants, trees and shrubs you’re selecting for your landscape. Native species best support insects, which feed birds. Consequently, you should consider planting native whenever possible. Here are some ideas for tree to attract birds to your yard.
Be sure to also leave a little mess in your garden! Seed heads, leaf litter, and brush piles create habitats. Finally, consider a feeder, but be sure to keep it clean. A dirty feeder can attract pests and spread disease.
The quiet lesson birding teaches
I am all about connection. Bird watching isn’t just about birds. It’s about connecting with nature, yourself, and other people; and finding little bits of enjoyment throughout the day. Our world gets louder and busier every year. But the birds are out there and when you watch them, you practice being where you are in the moment. If you’re thinking about birding, start today! Just open a window or step outside, then look and listen.
