This post includes three birds that I enjoyed watching an photographing this week. They are also birds that I would not have been nearly as likely to find without the generosity of my fellow birders. I have wanted to write a post about this for a while now, when I think back on all the posts I have made over the last year or so, how often am I thanking another birder? Very often! I am continually impressed by how kind and giving birders are; my experiences with other birders here in Orange County and the surrounding areas have been overwhelmingly positive. I have yet to come across a birder that is secretive or keeping any sort of “birding hotspot” to themselves. Rather, it is much more common to run into other birders out in the field, where they will give me the most detailed directions to get a good look or photograph of the latest bird that I am seeking.
Additionally, birders will take the time and energy to share their observations by texting, emailing or posting online. Again, this usually includes accurate and very detailed descriptions of where and when the bird had been seen.
The birding community is an extremely nice group of people, one that I feel I have slowly become a part of over the past couple of years. I want to take this opportunity to thank all the generous birders out there – I hope I can repay you all at one time or another.
Matt,
Seasoned birders are always happy to have new , enthusiastic birders join the ranks of the local birding community. When a bird is shared, it brings it to light as when you got to see it the first time. As a birders list grows the special moments decrease, so its always nice to see someone get it for the first time. This morning with you, Scott, Joyce and Mary was one of those times. The other great thing about new birders is they eventually share their great finds with those who they’ve birded with, so its a bonus for all. Congrats on the lifer and nice to see you today, John
I can certainly appreciate what you are saying John. Although I am by no means a seasoned birder, I have had the same opportunity with beginners and people who are not birders at all. This happens all the time for me down at the Nature Watch at the Basha Kill main boat launch. What a joy to see someone look into the scope and get a really good look at a wild eagle, possibly for the first time! I think what really impresses me is how often this happens in birding; it really indicates (to me) that birders are good people.
Great to see you, and thanks again for the help getting the Virginia Rail – what a thrill!