Birding has been popular amongst nature lovers for decades, but the COVID-19 pandemic launched it into a full-fledged fad. When stay-at-home orders left people looking for activities to do both outdoors and close to home, birding was a natural fit. Birding also involves spending time in nature, which research has shown boosts both mental health and physical well-being—and that’s something everyone can use. In fact, David Lindo, the bird guide leader and urban wildlife educator known as the Urban Birder, says that for him, birding is a type of meditation. But the benefits of birding don’t stop there: Exploring Your Neighborhood: One of birding’s greatest benefits is discovery. “Often you find things in your local neighborhood that you never thought would be there,” Lindo says. “Birding enables people to have a sense of place.” Finding Your Community: Many birders link up in local groups, going on bird-watching excursions together—and becoming part of a tight-knit group in the process. That’s part of what made this activity so big in recent years, says Jenna Curtis, Ph.D., project co-leader for eBird with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology: As people were feeling increasingly isolated during the pandemic, birding was one way they found connection. Learning Fascinating Facts: Geoff LeBaron, the Christmas Bird Count director for the National Audubon Society, says birding captures the joy of learning, no matter your age or ability. Each excursion is a chance to learn about the identifying characteristics, typical habitats, and migration patterns of the birds in your area—and, if you hit the bird watching jackpot, even to spot a bird you’ve never seen before. Enjoying It Anywhere: No matter where you are, there’s almost guaranteed to be a thriving population of birds near you, says Monica Bryand, the founder of the Urban Bird Collective in Minnesota. Even if you’re stuck at home, she says, bird watching is something you can do just by looking out your window. All-in-all, birding is a way to reduce stress, get some fresh air, make new friends and learn about the world—what’s not to love?,Jump to section Why Is Birding So Big Right Now? Beginner Birding Gear How to Go Birding: A Guide for Beginners Backyard Birding Frequently Asked Questions About Birding
