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copyright 2006-2010 Fledging Birders Institute
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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 logo developed by aclogodesign@aol.com Swallow-tailed Kite image courtesy of Delos McCauley Painted Bunting image courtesy of www.ejphoto.com
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Twenty-something birders often hear long-time veterans reminisce about the amazing fall outs of
yesteryears' spring migration or local hot spots that have been replaced with strip malls. Sadly, current
trends in many bird populations suggest that future generations will likely hear laments about ghosts
of birding past such as the amazing spectacle of foraging Red Knots on the Delaware Bayshore.
Fortunately, it's not too late to help our birds!
Among the long list of threats to birds, there is one that you can help resolve with a little effort. This is
the lack of public awareness with regards to local bird diversity and their conservation concerns. The
birds we love to watch need a PR team to help others appreciate them as well.
There are several high profile birders who have effectively brought the joy of birds to new audiences.
Kenn Kaufman's bold move to publish a North American field guide in Spanish opened birding to
large, and growing, demographic. Bill Thompson III, editor of Bird Watcher's Digest, designed a guide
specifically for children from 8 to 12 years old. Countless others write articles, maintain quality blogs,
and lead local trips aimed at those interested in birding.
Yet, there are potentially millions of other ambassadors out there - YOU, the birders!
As a collective, the birding community can share the wonders of birds with millions of new people -
family, friends, coworkers, and even complete strangers. With all due respect for the birding elite, YOU
are actually the best bird ambassador for those in your lives. You may not know birds like Kenn but,
compared to most others, you are a bird expert. More importantly, your enthusiasm will prove
contagious for those close to you.
You don't need to feel pressure to create the next David Sibley however your efforts could have a
significant impact on the plight of our birds. By opening people's eyes to the birds around them
everyday, you're laying the groundwork for them to start noticing the rich diversity of our birds. They will
be more likely to be struck by the majesty of a Great Blue Heron or an American Goldfinch's brilliance.
It is this appreciation that leads to the desire to protect something. As more people witness firsthand
the beauty of birds, the public support for habitat preservation and other conservation efforts can grow
exponentially.
Ready to get started? The Fledging Birders Method will help you be an effective bird ambassador.
Birders: The Front Line in the Fight to Save our Birds