Photo: Manny Majorins, a young Indiana birder, smiles on a fall day wearing a shirt that says “ASK ME ABOUT” with a bird graphic and binoculars around his neck.
BY RACHEL BRENT
What sparked your interest in birding? How did you get started?
The birds themselves sparked my interest in birding. Growing up I had no birding mentors or friends, but I had always been fascinated in the features and colors of the birds in my backyard when I lived in California. I often saw Western scrub-jays and White-crowned sparrows before I moved to Indiana. I also grew up watching many animal TV shows and documentaries.
Share a memorable birding experience or encounter that stands out to you.
One really memorable encounter happened this summer when my family and I were on a boardwalk in Virginia while on vacation. There was a small stream about four meters from my location, an Osprey that had been observing suddenly overhead suddenly dove for a fish. It came out with a good sized fish about half a foot long. This experience was very special and rewarding!
Are there specific bird-related books or guides that you’ve found helpful or enjoyable?
My favorite bird guide is “Sibley’s Guide to Birds of North America.” One other book I found very interesting and informative is “Good Birders Don’t Wear White: 50 Tips from Americans Top Birders.”
What bird species do you find most fascinating—and why?
I really love bill adaptations, like the Pileated Woodpecker (my favorite bird) and the Black Skimmer.
Are there any birding goals or species you hope to encounter in the future?
I have an entire board filled with pictures of birds I really want to see. Three of my most wanted are Least Bittern, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and American Woodcock.
What challenges have you faced as a young birder, and how have you overcome them?
My parents are very busy most of the time, so it is hard to find time to go birding. I spend my time studying birds instead, practicing bird ID, and listening to bird podcasts. I have overcome some of this challenge by keeping a yard list for the last two years.
What advice do you have for other young people interested in taking up birding as a hobby?
Take time and enjoy the birds, a lot of birders tend to list a bird and move on. Instead, try to seize the chance to be with the bird, this makes a much more satisfying and enjoyable experience.
This Q&A originally ran in the December 2023–January 2024 print edition of The Cardinal.
Tags: meet a member Q&A
