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Bringing the joy AND BENEFITS of birding to our youth - to promote their healthy development and bird conservation.
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Fledging Birders Institute      P.O. Box 1774     Bellmawr, NJ 08099
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Swallow-tailed Kite image courtesy of Delos McCauley
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As birders, we often know no boundaries when it comes to seeking a good look at a nice bird however
our zeal is rarely shared by prospective future birders that we bring into the field with us. Chances are
they will not be such happy campers after trudging 2 miles through a sweaty swamp while dodging
flying bloodsuckers only to have their "annoying friend" point out some distant bird - even if it is an
Ivory-billed Woodpecker!

We need to be careful when trying to bring someone new into birding. If we push too hard, our efforts
will prove to have been counterproductive. The kids will develop a strong resentment against both you
and birds. The result -
birds are boring. Or even worse birding sucks!

There can be a fine line between inspiration and frustration. Try not to cross it.  If you do, there may be
no chance of getting them interested in birds later in life. If you plant just a little seed, however, it may
grow into a full birding obsession later in life!
10 Tips for Birders
This list includes ways to inspire an appreciation of birding AND minimize the risk of
forcing it upon them - which will be quite counterproductive!
keep a yard list posted in your house for everyone to see
get a bird song clock
use field guides and bird magazine as coffee table books for visitors
try to avoid long birding walks until they're "ready"
keep feeders visible from your windows
decorate with birds
leave binoculars out to be discovered by visitors of all ages
when they look at things other than birds, encourage them. Nature is nature!
respect their request to end a trip early OR risk that they'll HATE birding
If you successfully pique their curiosity, you will be inundated with bird questions.
THIS IS GREAT!!
Entertain their inquiries with patience and excitement.
Your enjoyment of birds will prove contagious = )
Words of Advice for Birders: Share your passion. Don't push it!