In the summer months, we all tend to become amateur birdwatchers. From spotting a sparrow on the way to work to marveling at a hawk wheeling over a Saturday morning hike, birds encourage a brief moment of meditation. We love their songs, plumage, and grace of movement. But how many birds do you know by name? Who authored the song outside your kitchen window?
Carver kids can tell you, thanks to Avery Cotton! Avery, a New Canaan High School student and friend of the Carver, has been sharing his passion for birding with our programs since last year. Avery is an active volunteer at the New Canaan Land Trust, and along with his father, Newell, was responsible for digitally documenting nearly 100 different species of bird on the preserves. He returned to Carver to once again teach our students the magic of bird watching and the importance of conservation. Here are the highlights of Avery’s enrichment program if you too want to learn the basics of birding!
Birding 101:
Incredible Diversity: There are over 400+ species of bird in Connecticut! Some backyard birds include distinctive feathered faces, like the blue-jay or the red-bellied woodpecker. But our local birds are just a drop in the bucket: there are over 10,000 species worldwide!
Identifying at a Glance: Many birds are naturally camouflaged. When you see one, it’s important to quickly note traits if you want an ID! Avery recommends checking body shape, body size, bill/beak shape, colors, patterns, and behaviors. Novice birders can also employ the aid of the eBird app or website—a digital compendium of bird sightings by location that Avery himself regularly adds to.
Perceiving Other Clues: Despite the fact many birders rock binoculars, birding doesn’t stop at what you can see. Avery advises to go slow and keep your ears open. To know the birds is to also know their habitat, their migration timing, and their likelihood to startle.
Getting Out in the Field: While our backyards are excellent starting places, Connecticut is host to a variety of other habitats and open parks. Birders should consider visiting the New Canaan Land Trust, the Greenwich Audubon Center, Sherwood Island State Park, or any of the other conserved natural areas nearby! You would be surprised at how quickly the denizens change from habitat to habitat.
Respect the Natural World: As always, when enjoying the great outdoors, show consideration for those who live there. Leave only footprints!
We are so grateful to once again enjoy Avery’s expertise. His passion lights curiosity in our students and gives them valuable perspective. As day-to-day living becomes ever more digital, our kids know that it’s a good practice to take a break from the screens, get outside, and enjoy what surrounds them. Thank you, Avery!
