The Quiet Thrill of Winter Birding
By Dr. Barbara Patterson ~ First published in the Fort Collins Audubon Newsletter, Nov. 2024
Some people think of birding as a warm-weather activity, but winter offers unique opportunities, especially in the Rocky Mountains, where both endemic species and northern migrants can be found. Winter is a great time for beginners to dive into birding. Here’s why: ducks show off their stunning winter plumage compared to the colorful songbirds that show off more in spring. With bare trees and shrubs, birds become easier to see. Birds form flocks to search for food, stay warm, and protect themselves from other hungry birds. Some species are only present in Colorado during winter as they migrate from Alaska and Canada.
Incorporating birding into winter activities like snowshoeing or skiing enhances the experience, allowing you to connect with nature differently. Plus, birding encourages mindfulness since being fully present is crucial in noticing the sights and sounds of these winter visitors. It's a beautiful way to appreciate the natural world year-round.
Mindful birding combines the calming effects of mindfulness with the joy of observing birds, creating an enriching outdoor experience. The Fort Collins Audubon Society received an Audubon In Action Grant this year to train others in hosting mindful birding experiences that welcome everyone. The health benefits of this practice include lower blood pressure, reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), increased vitamin D, and exposure to phytoncides from trees, which boost the body's NK (natural killer) cells. Best of all, the simple joy of watching birds can be experienced anywhere—from your backyard, kitchen window, or out in the field—making birding accessible to everyone, even in winter!
Last month, the Fort Collins Audubon Society, Audubon Rockies, and Bird Conservancy of the Rockies hosted the Mindful Birding Project at Barr Lake State Park in Brighton. It was a beautiful day, and bird enthusiasts from three states and various organizations, including multiple Audubon chapters, came together. One of the highlights was spotting a family of barn owls (Photo: Meg Kast). This workshop kicked off a series of six programs designed to teach participants how to lead mindful birding programs in an inclusive and accessible way. Three national online seminars will occur in January and February 2025. In-person workshops are scheduled for March 22 in San Francisco and April 19 in Philadelphia. We are excited to share this practice with others.
Barn Owl family - Photo © Meg Kast
