This article was submitted by Jessica Johnshrud, the Education Coordinator and Assistant Director at Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve.
It’s that time of year, when I slowly amble around my neighborhood with my binoculars strapped to my chest. I regularly walk the area, looking and listening for birds. I may stand in one area for a half-hour if there’s a lot of action. I have been birding since my teens and enjoy this activity solo, as well as sharing it with others.
One thing I love about bird-watching is that it requires me to be in the present moment. Peering at a bird through my binoculars, I am focused, watching the bird flit about to find an insect snack. There is no time for me to listen to the busy chatter in my head—only time to move my binoculars as the bird swiftly moves from branch to branch. It truly is a form of mindfulness that I find relaxing.
After the relative quiet of winter, I appreciate observing my “first of year” or FOY species. These are birds that migrated in the fall, but are now returning to their nesting grounds and are the first of a particular species I have seen that year. It feels hopeful and exciting to see these old friends again.
Spring and early summer is an excellent time to also listen for birds or to “bird by ear.” Love is in the air and male birds are very vocal, advertising to females with their mating song. Each species has their own specific mating song, as well as a series of other calls for communication. Even if the bird is not visible, it’s still possible to identify the species if it is singing.
As I take my daily walks, I love the challenge of closely listening to the bird chatter and trying to decipher a new bird song. I have found that using mnemonics has been a very helpful tool. Mnemonics are phrases that sound similar to the bird’s song. For example, the Black-capped Chickadee says, “Cheeseburger!” and the Eastern Towhee says, “Drink your tea!” These phrases do not work for all bird songs, but it does apply to many.
Bird-watching is enjoyable and definitely good for your health. Research has shown a link between observing birds and a decrease in overall stress. Birding increases happiness and can create a sense of awe and appreciation. People bird as they walk, but many people also bird by bike or kayak and canoe—all excellent forms of physical activity.
If you are interested in increasing your happiness, learning a few tidbits, and observing some beautiful feathered friends, join me on a Bird Walk at Woodland Dunes Nature Center! We are partnering with the Manitowoc Public Library to offer a guided bird walk on Friday, June 25th at 8:30 AM (weather-permitting). Bring a pair of binoculars and be prepared for a multisensory experience courtesy of Mother Nature!
Registration is required and space is limited. For more information or to register, head to the “Events” page at www.manitowoclibrary.org and click on our June 25th Bird Walk!
