Subject: Re: Birders
Date: Apr 18 23:58:21 1997
From: BirdAHikes at aol.com - BirdAHikes at aol.com


In a message dated 97-04-16 21:21:16 EDT, you write:

<< After observing this mailing list, I have come to the conclusion
that the majority of you viewers are serious birders, and I would be
interested in hearing your thoughts as to why you look for birds, what
thrills you about seeing a bird, or any thoughts you have about the topic.
>>

Jared,

There are many reasons for watching birds and I'm sure you'll get different
answers from many birders.

My mother used to watch birds, get thrilled when a migratory bird returned to
our yard, and she kept a journal of the birds she saw out of our front
window. I used to laugh at her and think "what a crock!"

As I got older, I started getting interested in the different birds I would
see in different parts of the world as well as in different habitats and
different seasons around home. I also care deeply about forests---hiking or
just sitting in the forest is the most spiritual thing I can do---and forest
birds are really interesting to me.

I have lately become more interested in improving the habitat in my own
backyard; especially in view of the feverish development taking place around
us.

Field trips are a lot of fun for my husband and me. It's social and
competitive at the same time.

Now my son laughs at me!

Maia Kelly
Selah, WA