It is SO much fun to meet a new birder... someone who is just getting into the hobby, eager to read and hear and do anything and everything birds.
Does that describe you? Fabulous, and welcome! Below are 5 great ways for you to dive into the bird world. Let us know if you have any questions about these activities or resources—we're always looking for ways to make birding more approachable and fun!
1. Join the Saturday Sit outing
Photo by Pixabay
Outing: OCT. 22, 7AM-4PM
Free! More info here.
Join us at Warner Park for a “Saturday Sit,” where we’ll remain in one area while looking and listening for birds. This low-key event is a great place to learn! This sit is designed to be inclusive and accessible to ALL birders of ALL skill levels and ALL abilities! Led by Kaitlin Svabek, co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired
Photo by USFWS Midwest
Online class: NOV. 10, 6-8PM
Field trip: NOV. 12, 1-3PM
Registration: $20/person
If you want to find out more about some of the most common winter bird species you'll see where you live, this class is for you! Learn who they are, why they’re there, and what helps them survive Wisconsin's cold winters. Taught by Maggie and Bob Honig.
Photo by Caitlyn Schuchhardt
This blog series designed for new birders features 50 wonderful entries written by Caitlyn Schuchhardt. Get tips for bird ID, what to bring, where to go, how to remember birds, and much, much more!
Photo by Monica Hall
Outdoor Class: NOV. 5, 8-11AM
Registration: $20/person
Observing and drawing birds is a wonderful way to learn more about the species you're watching! Join our education director Carolyn Byers and other likeminded nature lovers for an art class focused on drawing waterfowl at Goose Pond.
Photo by Email Meier / Madison Audubon
At Goose Pond and Faville Grove Sanctuaries, volunteers spend time in nature collecting seeds, seeing and listening to birds, and connecting with fellow outdoors enthusiasts. There are just a few seed collecting events left this fall, join in and learn about native habitats and the birds which need them!
I hope that these resources are a good kick-starter to your birding adventures. Please don't hesitate to reach out and introduce yourself if you're new to this community or have any questions.
Happy birding,
Brenna Marsicek, Madison Audubon director of communications and outreach
