"Extreme birding. Two words I never expected to be used together, much less find myself interested in. But that seems to be the sorcery of the YouTube algorithm. All of a sudden, I'm watching a video about birding and deciding I need this in my life. For those who haven't watched Listers yet (what are you waiting for?), this is not the documentary about birding that you're expecting."
"So what does that have to do with a bike website? After watching Listers, I realized that one of the conclusions drawn in the video by Quentin and Owen Reiser is completely true. Many people (including myself) are already birders; they just don't see themselves as such. Kind of like how many people who ride bikes don't see themselves as cyclists."
"I've always taken an interest in birds along the way, but never in a "I gotta log this in eBird so I can get my lifer" sort of way. But after watching the film, I found myself taking more notice of birds out on my rides - and wanting to take a closer look."
Birding can be integrated into cycling to create a rewarding, low-barrier activity that heightens awareness during rides. Many people already observe birds without labeling themselves birders, similar to cyclists who don't identify as such. Interest can grow from casual noticing to deliberate identification and logging. No special gear is required beyond eyes and ears; optics improve distant viewing but are not essential. Smartphone apps like Merlin and eBird provide tools for identification, logging, and engagement. Birding by bike adds another dimension to rides, is enjoyable, and requires minimal extra preparation or equipment to begin.
Read at Bikerumor
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