How to Be Present in Nature: Part I (Bird Watch)

Bird watching!

When you’re walking in your neighborhood or in your local park, pay attention to the different sounds of the birds around you. Do you hear one bird? If so, can you locate it? Are there many birds? Are they in a tree?

What type of birds are flying ahead and where do they seem to be resting? I’ve noticed birds in telephone and street sign poles. I’ve seen them perched on tombstones in cemeteries; I’ve watched them flutter in and out of holes in people’s roofs.

I’ve been in Prospect Park and noticed grey catbirds, red winged blackbirds, mockingbirds, cardinals, blue jays, warblers, red tailed hawks and more! It’s so fun – it’s even cooler when you can recognize their calls. Blue jays I’ve noticed are particularly loud and easily noticeable. I’m working on being able to distinguish their sounds, but, all in due time.

Image captured by me in Prospect Park.

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