"And what," people sometimes ask, "is the real attraction of bird watching? Why does it collect so many followers?" Well, for me its charm is that it's difficult, it's out of doors, it requires patience and an enquiring mind, and the objects of the study are not only interesting but beautiful.
Peter Scott
Years ago I was fortunate to visit the The Wildlife Trust in Slimbridge, Glos., England, and it was there that I very quickly developed an enormous admiration for Peter Scott. Not only a conservationist and artist of great renown, he was an accomplished wordsmith, and I think his few words above encapsulate so beautifully what those of us who are mad about birds feel every day.
The weather might be gloomy, the clouds threatening, the wind chill, and the path muddy, but surely all of that pales into insignificance when set against the sighting of a Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus).
The elation of finding an Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio) quietly watching the world go by is indescribable.
It is often said that an American Robin (Turdus migratorius) is common, but it's only common in the sense that it is frequently seen.
It is by any other measure anything but. It is possessed of uncommon beauty, a cheerful musical song, a confiding nature, a joy at bathing and is a hardworking, dedicated parent. Whose sombre mood could fail to be improved upon meeting up with a robin?
A Mallard (Anas platyrynchos) is familiar to all, and loved by adult and child alike.
People seem to have an inner compulsion to strew seed for these friendly, approachable ducks, and to see them peacefully feeding alongside a squirrel is in stark contrast to the barbarism humans all too frequently inflict on each other.
It is said that "Music has charms to sooth a savage breast" (William Congreve [1697]), and so it does. The soothing power of nature is not to be overlooked, however.
Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) pair for life and exhibit qualities humans would benefit from emulating. I am very fond of geese and so was Peter Scott, so I know I am in good company.
A Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) patrols the skies with such grace, and mastery of its environment, that one cannot fail to be awestruck at each encounter.
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) is a tiny bird that exudes beauty and charm, and enlivens our spirits on even the coldest winter day.
What did Peter say? - "Interesting and beautiful."
Indeed! And loved by all who take the time to know it.
You could be forgiven for thinking that we had embarked on a long outing, beating a path through woods, meadows and swamps to get these pictures, but you would be wrong. They are the result of a couple of recent walks over the past few days, through local parks. There were casual walkers, dogs and their human companions, cyclists and even people on those motorized scooter contraptions.
Even in human-modified landscapes, birds are there to be enjoyed. I would never want to live without them. And I am sure I never will.
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I hope very much that there will always be birds to see and enjo, the world would be much poorer without them Hugs, Valerie
ReplyDeleteI came to birdwatching through my love of landscape and walking through it. Birds are very definitely an element of the land and one whose influence is out of all proportion to their tiny size. Think of a wide arable field, then think of the same field with the song of a Skylark cascading down from on high. Or coniferous plantation with a Goshawk swooping between the trees. Or a bridge of steel girders in a northern industrial port, compared to the same bridge with Kittiwakes nesting on the ledges.
ReplyDeleteYou have a lyrical way with words, John. It is always gives me pleasure to read what you write.
DeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteOh Peter Scott - a hero of my childhood and all young ornitholgists! I guess it can be difficult to explain to any who do not share one's interest just exactly what are the attractions; probably also true of those of use who like to track shipping, or satellites or trains... YAM xx
I'm not much of a bird watcher, unless they present themselves where I'm walking along. I do enjoy seeing and hearing them out my windows too. I am so glad you birders are out there telling me all about them!
ReplyDelete...I know a number of Amish who are bird watchers. Folks who can sit for church on a backless wooden bench for three hours must have the necessary patience!
ReplyDeleteAnd they're probably more drawn to the birds than the preacher spouting fire and brinstone.
DeleteThe Canada geeses looks very beautiful, David. They look so majestic!
ReplyDeleteHugs and kisses, Marit
I am delighted with the new graphic design of your blog. She's beautiful! I was sick for some time and I didn't visit you.
ReplyDeleteDavid, I admire your tremendous passion for birdwatching. I am delighted with Canadian geese, they are beautiful birds.
Hugs and greetings.
Thank you so much for sharing these beauties. Feathered enchantment.
ReplyDeleteGreat to have you back with us, Sue.
DeleteHello David,
ReplyDeleteI enjoy birdwatching, I love to hear them singing. It is a happy and simple pleasure to enjoy, not to mention just being outdoors in nature. Your photos and birds are beautiful, great post. Enjoy your day!
I think American Robin looks really beautiful! Here we can only see papagei and megpie.
ReplyDeleteC'est joliment raconté, observer les oiseaux nous fait oublier un temps ce monde de fou.
ReplyDeleteLes photos sont très jolies. Bonne soirée
Beautiful words and images that I'll not attempt to add to, David. You've said it all!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes to you and Miriam - - - Richard
Another extraordinary post David! Not only the photos, but your commentary is spot on. I too have had a fascination of birds since 3rd grade when our teacher helped us all make suet feeders to take home for the backyard birds. Since then, I have been feeding them and in the last decade started photographing them.
ReplyDeleteSorry for such a wordy comment. Have a great weekend, happy birding, and thanks for linking with us.
Your wordy comment is much appreciated, Anni.
DeleteThe world would be a much poorer place if we didn't have birds around us. It always amazes me that some people simply never see (or hear) them. They miss out on so much beauty.
ReplyDeleteHere here!
ReplyDeleteWell said, and beautiful birds.
ReplyDeleteHi David.
ReplyDeleteThis post is wonderfully written. It's touching and true. Why do humans inflict so much suffering on each other?
I felt all your emotions, you, bird lover, like many, like me.
Kisses dear David.
I have little doubt, Nathalie, that you are the most sensitive of all. Gros bisous.
DeleteBirds make all worries of the world disappear for a few minutes as I look for them. When I find one and watch silently for a few moments, the bird and I are the only things in the world. They a beautiful, fascinating and worth every minute of the pursuit.
ReplyDeleteI know that feeling well, Marie.
DeleteThis was not the winter for me, but soon I will have feeders out and where I can fill them. In addition to all the regulars, sometimes there is an unexpected visitor.
ReplyDeleteI am sure the birds will bring you much joy, Joanne.
DeleteHi David, First of all, thank you so much for helping me confirm the Double-crested Cormorant on my blog. I appreciate your comments. Now, re this post, Birdwatching, I admire your photography. The photo of the American Robin is excellent and I loved your thought ... it is only common in the sense that it is frequently seen. Thank you for sharing your blog and your knowledge.
ReplyDeleteGreat thoughts. Most of these birds are ones I photograph but not the owl. I think I only have a handful of owl photos.
ReplyDeleteOwls are fascinating how they blend into the tree but they were made that way.
ReplyDeleteThe Black-capped Chickadee is a sweet little bird...my dad loved birds and used to breed 'love birds', then one day a horse pushed on the gate which was supposed to be locked then walked into the backyard and pushed itself onto the aviary and of course many birds flew away...my dad was very upset as we all were.
A handsome pair of Canada geese. Yep, people look at me funny when I tell them I bird watch but you have said it all in your pictures that bird watching is just so exciting. For you it is chilly weather, for us it is sizzling but we are still out there getting excited when ever we sight a rare species. It is so difficult to spot a wood pecker here as he trees are thick with foilage, I can only hear them tapping on the tree barks. I like you new pix of the flight of the king fisher
ReplyDeletegreat post. Your image of the Chickadee is soo cute :)
ReplyDeleteI find birds fascinating but I'm clearly not in your class, David. My health means I largely just see those that come. into my garden and with the parks and bush reserves around us that is quite a lot. I just spent an hour outside pulling a few weeds in the company of a Willy Wagtail which followed me around chattering - they say djitty djitty - as we went.
ReplyDeleteI just hope that some Australian purist doesn't try to change the name Willy Wagtail one day. The name is as endearing as the bird itself.
DeleteWell said. I have been botanizing instead of bird watching. We jokingly tried to do better than the birdwatchers, because (at least in Denmark) there are far more flowers to learn than birds.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I gave up on birds because I'm a clown at holding binoculars still and because I find it infuriatingly difficult to remember their calls and songs which is often what you use to register that a bird is there.
But I love birds and envy you the many extra joys you have. Thank you for sharing them so well.
Lisbeth
We birders are quite willing to tolerate botanists, Lisbeth. (I am ducking to avoid the plant pot I see hurtling towards my head!)
DeleteAs a friendly botanist I would never do that ;-) Think about the plant!
DeleteHaha!
DeleteThose birds are an adorable "excuse" to go out! No matter the weather, just seeing how they manage whilst we can put on clothes and or put the heating on is amazing. And they always seem to be happy, too.
ReplyDeleteI love to see the variety on your blog.
I am always happy to see a robin! There were three in our backyard this morning.
ReplyDeleteHi David - birders are totally devoted to their time spent watching, evaluating, noticing birds - they are too beautiful as well. Patience is helpful ... we have excessive seagulls!, magpies, jackdaws and lots of littlies in the hedge rows and trees singing their hearts out. They are stunning creatures - thanks for keeping us cheering for birdwatching - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful photos! I find bird-watching an enjoyable pastime. A peaceful way to spend time..
ReplyDeleteWell said, David. Beautiful photo of the owl. I have never seen an owl but maybe someday I'll get lucky.
ReplyDeleteYour walks must be lovely ... the weather looks brisk but warm enough to be comfortable and the sights are a delight. All of the birds you were lucky enough to see, I have seen and taken pictures of as well. My favorite of this group would be a toss up between the humorous little Chickadee and the also humorous, if you are lucky enough to befriend one, turkey vulture. I could tell stories of Turkey Jr. who was living at our Rehab facility ... he was clever, funny and a gamester and we all loved him. He loved playing tug of war so we always brought a little piece of rope with us when we walked him. I know, it is not the side of a Turkey Vulture that most people see ... and when we used him in education programs the little boys always loved the "he will vomit on you" part of the story. So much fun and so endearing ... I could go on and on. I know of Peter Scott, though it has been a long time since I learned about him and have forgotten much of it ... I do remember though that he went by Sir Peter Scott and was know for his studies of conservation. I have been gifted a book called Avian Illuminations ... a Cultural History of Birds by Boria Sax. I haven't sat down with it yet, but at a glance it looks really interesting. Are you familiar with it?
ReplyDeleteI agree whole heartedly with your thoughts on the Ukraine ... it seems there has to be a way to stop the mindless slaughter of civilians to say nothing of the losses in the military ranks. Standing down doesn't seem to be a good answer ... No one wants a nuclear war and no one is sure that Putin wouldn't resort to it. A no win situation ... exasperating to those of us who have to watch and excruciating to those who are living it. Be Well, David ...
Andrea @ From the Sol
Peter Scott was indeed knighted and became Sir Peter Scott. It's great to hear of the rehab Turkey Vulture. I am sure that very few people have the chance to get to know the bird in the way that you did. I have a sweat shirt with a hand painted Turkey Vulture on it. I bid on it at a silent auction years ago and won it. Whenever I do presentations to groups of children I always dwell on the projectile vomit and their habit of pooping on their own legs to cool down. The grosser is it the more the kids love it! The book by Boria Sax sound very interesting. Let me know what you think of it. I am not familiar with it at all, or the author for that matter. With my very best wishes, David
DeleteI just googled Boria Sax. He seems like a very interesting man and has written widely about human-animal relationships.
DeleteI think Scott’s reasons for birding are similar to mine. There is also something about the colors, the beauty of their movements, and curiousness about something so small and light being able to do what they do that attracts me as well.
ReplyDeleteYou are in very good company, Cynthia.
DeleteWhat a great post and so well put, thanks David. I am glad the people there throw seed, in the UK, when we re there, all we see is people throwing bread, how I wish they would learn.
ReplyDeleteKeep safe , best wishes to you both, Diane
Thank you for sharing these beautiful photographs.
ReplyDeleteI do enjoy seeing and hearing birds, my favourite is the robin.
All the best Jan
Even though I do not know much about birds, I do enjoy watching the few birds that visit my tiny garden, looking for food and nesting in my plants. I get excited seeing tiny chicks in the nest until it was time for them to fly off. The sounds of birds chirping in the morning is music to my ears. I enjoy looking at the beautiful birds in your posts.
ReplyDeleteHi David.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures.
Beautiful the Owl and the Woodpecker.
That American Robin is beautiful.
Greetings from Patricia.
Buenos días, estimado amigo David, algo tarde, pero ya estamos por estos lares. He tenido problemas con el blog que he tenido que solucionar. Los de Google no paraban de mandarme informes de Seach Console sobre problemas del blog y a base de horas de ordenador parece que ya he podido resolver.
ReplyDelete¡Gran entrada profesor!, estoy totalmente de acuerdo con toda tu exposición y lo maravilloso que resulta ser el mundo de las aves. No obstante, creo, que para ello el ser humano necesita de cierta sensibilidad para llegar a apreciar a tan diminutas y bellas criaturas. Si se carece de esa sensibilidad incluso con los de nuestra especie, ¿Cómo poder apreciar y querer a esos bellos y entrañables compañeros de planeta?
El ser humano está necesitado de un cambio profundo de mentalidad, no podemos seguir por ese camino trazado que nos llevará a nuestra propia destrucción.
Un gran abrazo querido maestro y profesor, sigue siempre con tus enseñanzas, un gran ejemplo de tu buen hacer y del cariño que transmites.
Feliz PRIMAVERA te desea este tu discípulo, compadre y amigo Juan.
Eres demasiado amable conmigo, amigo Juan.
DeleteI am so glad you included Turkey Vultures in your essay. They and their cousins, the Black Vultures, are among my favorite "backyard birds" to watch as they circle through my neighborhood. Such grace and power in those wings. There is nothing at all common about any of the "common" birds that we see every day. They are all extraordinary.
ReplyDeleteEvery photo a gem and each word a treasure. I'm looking forward to taking the toddlers out duck-spotting this spring. We'll probably go to the ditch or campus with some birdseed. Lovely, David. And close to home!
ReplyDeleteEstoy de acuerdo con todo lo que dices y también por supuesto con Scoot, gran artículo!!! David gracias por compartir, te mando un fuerte abrazo desde España
ReplyDeleteI hiked today and even though I didn't see many birds, I enjoyed it immensely. There's something special about getting out in the great outdoors! And FL is a great place to see a variety of birds. I love seeing your amazing photos and your new banner is beautiful! Enjoy your week!
ReplyDeleteOne very appealing feature of birding hasn’t (as far as I can see) been mentioned: it’s a very companionable thing to do with others, not just a solo pastime. Organized bird walks happen all the time, via the Audubon Society and others, but many friends and families also bird together.
ReplyDeletebest… mae at maefood.blogspot.com
Hello David, Many years ago as I was finishing my army service in Cyprus I wrote to Peter Scott at Slimbridge for some advice when I got home for demob. To my surprise I got a reply almost immediately offering me the chance to visit Slimbridge for a chat. I duly accepted and had a wonderful day. Now some 60 odd years later I am still a member of the WWT and often visit my local reserve at Arundel. Sir Peter Scott I admired greatly.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great experience that must have been, Mike, and I am sure the memory has remained with you. I am not surprised to learn that he was so gracious, and you have honoured his memory so eloquently.
DeleteMe encanta como eres querido amigo David, amas los pájaros y con ellos también toda la naturaleza. Yo también soy así, adoro ver paisajes, flora, aves, insectos, etc. Abrazos.
ReplyDeleteExcellent post, David. Ever since moving to my house in NJ, I've delighted in watching the variety of birds that frequent my feeders. An exciting day is when a new bird shows up! I truly believe that backyard bird watching saved my sanity during the pandemic. I spend hours sitting on my deck, watching and photographing. Such a gift of nature! I've seen some great birds here in Florida, but I'm looking forward to going back up to NJ, to see my northern feathered friends.
ReplyDeleteI love seeing and photographing birds in a park or bird sanctuary. I lack the patience for birdwatching. So glad though that I get to enjoy your birding adventures.
ReplyDeleteHappy Wednesday, David.
Querido David me encanta leerte. Yo no soy gran entendida en aves, pero las adoro, verlas por mi huerta y escucharlas cantar creo que es algo único, pero también tengo debilidad por la la fauna y la flora que me rodea, así como mis plantas y como no los insectos. Feliz fin de semana. Abrazos para ti y para Miriam.
ReplyDeleteHi David,
ReplyDeleteWow!@!!! these photos make my heart melt, especially the owl in the tree and the beautiful woodpecker 💚 I've missed quite a bit over the past few weeks, I can see.
Big hug
Helma