Birding: A Growing Passion for Nature Lovers

Growing up, Sarah Toner often went on bird walks with her grandfather and quickly developed a passion for birding. Now at 22, she graduated with a biology degree from Cornell University, traveling the world to research birds.

Today, she works at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, widely regarded as the world’s leading bird research center, and spends her free time exploring new places to discover birds and their habitats.

“Birding makes you pay attention to your surroundings and oftentimes, it’ll take you off the beaten path,” she says. “I love getting the chance to explore new landscapes and learn about different places through their birds.”

Toner is not alone in her love for birding. Previously viewed as a pursuit predominantly for the affluent or retirees, birding is becoming increasingly diverse and inclusive, particularly among younger outdoor enthusiasts.

Birding for the New Millennium

Birding is also gaining traction in popular culture, with films like The Big Year showcasing the competitive and adventurous aspects of the sport. Moreover, alarming declines in bird populations linked to habitat loss and pollution have drawn in young individuals concerned about climate change and conservation.

Organizations focused on birding are actively working to diversify and engage young people. The National Audubon Society, for instance, has initiated birding-focused groups at various colleges and universities.

Advancements in technology have also simplified birdwatching; rather than relying on printed field guides, you can now use mobile bird identification and tracking apps. Additionally, social media platforms facilitate sharing rare sightings and captivating photos, fostering a genuine sense of community among birders.

“It’s easier than ever to identify what you’re seeing and connect with other enthusiasts,” states Jennie Duberstein, a young birder liaison.

Birding enhances various outdoor activities. Hiking becomes more engaging while keeping an eye out for tiny hummingbirds, and standup paddle boarding can turn into an opportunity to spot new species of shorebirds.

Even skiing can be complemented with birdwatching. Alta Ski Area in northern Utah hosts regular “Birding on Skis” events led by experts, where participants ski diverse terrains in search of local and migratory birds.

Birding While Social Distancing

In today’s world, birding offers an ideal hobby that aligns well with social distancing practices. All you truly need for a birdwatching excursion are your senses and possibly a pair of binoculars. Phone applications can assist you in identifying birds based on your location and the seasonal timeframe.

As spring arrives, many birds are migrating back north, increasing the likelihood of encountering a diverse range of species right outside your door.

US Birding Destinations for Your Bucket List

Birding can serve as an unexpected source of travel inspiration. Explore potentially next birding destinations across the country or take note of the vibrant wildlife flourishing near you.

Southeast Colorado

While the Rocky Mountains grab much of the limelight, the high plains of southeast Colorado hold their own beauty. John Martin Reservoir is a prime birding location known for recording around 400 species. During winter, thousands of snowy geese congregate here, supported by the High Plains Snow Goose Festival celebrating this annual arrival.

Central Nebraska

Nebraska often remains underappreciated as a travel destination; however, during late winter and early spring, it attracts birdwatchers eager to witness the remarkable sandhill crane migration, where nearly 600,000 cranes stop along the Platte River.

Southeast Texas

Texas, as the first landfall for many migratory birds after crossing the Gulf of Mexico, serves as a vital refueling point, particularly in spring. The area northeast of Galveston features renowned birdwatching sites, providing opportunities to see diverse species including warblers and shorebirds.

Southern New Jersey

At the southern tip of New Jersey lies the Cape May Bird Observatory, globally recognized as a prime birding spot. During fall, this area becomes a hub for migratory birds, showcasing an impressive array of species.

Northern Ohio

Magee Marsh, a 2202-acre wildlife area along Lake Erie, is a must-visit for avid birders. Here, visitors can enjoy diverse species, especially warblers, taking advantage of this safe harbor during migration.

Central California

With its vast range of bird habitats, California remains a popular destination for birdwatching, recording the highest species count in the US. The coastal areas, such as Morro Bay, are particularly fruitful for spotting nesting peregrine falcons and varied waterfowl.

Southeast Arizona

Thanks to its diverse landscape, southeast Arizona is renowned for birdwatching, attracting enthusiasts eager to spot rare species including hummingbirds and woodpeckers. The warm weather and numerous attractions further enrich the experience.