American (Birding) Tune

Can a Big Year be more than just seeing as many birds in a geographical area during a calendar year?

Watching the news and seeing how so much as developed in the span of only a few months, I now think that besides seeing the birds, I would like to see as much of the country (and maybe Canada) as possible.

What this would entail is incorporating a more holistic approach. Namely, I want to understand the ecology and natural diversity of the continent. Meeting other birders, either those I would meet along the trails or guides I would take tours with, only enriches the experience.

Too often, birders in their Bit Year memoirs follow a standard, hackneyed approach: I went here, saw this bird, and left. After the nth bird listed, the story quickly gets old.

I would like to document my journey in a fresh approach, one that would appeal to birders and non-birders alike.

Once a more concrete example develops, you’ll be the first to know.