Winter is a wonderful time to rest, rejuvenate and watch for winter birds. Let’s explore the world of winter birds and how watching them can inspire kindness.
Typically, when you think about winter birds, penguins are the most common winter bird one thinks of. And why wouldn’t you? They are so cute, waddle around in tuxedos and are so unique. It’s no wonder that the penguin exhibits are a hit at most zoos or aquariums. However, many penguin colonies in the wild have been lost due to climate change, and it’s estimated that half the population of emperor penguins will vanish by the end of this century! People are just fascinated by these cute creatures, so if you can, teach your kids about them and watch a few penguin movies this winter together. However, penguins are not the typical backyard winter bird unless you live in the Arctic.
Bird watching is among the fastest-growing outdoor activity in the United States
It developed around the 20th century with the invention of optical aids like binoculars. The activity first became popular in Great Britain, followed by the United States. Citizen science is helpful, and the idea of the layperson contributing to science by collecting data supports the science and study of birds. Bird counting is fun in winter since most trees are bare, and you can see all the birds better in the trees—especially the bright-colored birds like bluejays and male cardinals. Winter bird watching is an adventurous way to explore hidden branches and is a fun way to get outdoors in the cold. Plus, bird-watching curbs humans’ urge to hunt and avoids casualties. Bird watching gets people to appreciate wildlife instead of hunting them indiscriminately.
Backyard bird watching has immense mental health benefits
There are a multitude of reasons why birds specifically lead to emotional benefits, such as feelings of being calm and at peace. It’s a unique hobby that can help boost mental and emotional well-being while enjoying the outdoors. Bird-watching leads to feelings of awe, an emotion that has powerful effects on your body and mind. An overwhelming mix of joy, amazement and even a bit of magic. Especially when you see a little hummingbird flutter by.
Bird watching helps to be more mindful. Seeing animals in the wild heightens the senses as you move into a state of flow where thoughts and actions focus on spotting, watching, identifying and appreciating the wildlife around you. Being immersed in nature and watching birds helps you step away from day-to-day worries and makes you feel more relaxed. This is especially beneficial during the winter season since many might develop SAD.
Birdwatching stimulates creativity. It can lead to creative endeavors like nature photography and drawing or painting nature scenes since it involves being outside and experiencing the beauty of nature. When you try to capture a picture of a bird in the wild, you focus intensely, which allows you to become distracted from negative emotions like stress, anxiety and sadness. It also gets you in a state of flow, which means becoming so absorbed in your creative project that you reach a near-mediative state. When you are in a state of flow, you forget about all your thoughts and lose track of time. The entire process becomes meditative, and you will feel more relaxed.
Tweet, tweet! Birdsongs are soothing. Listening mindfully to nature, you can feel more relaxed due to the restorative effects of natural noises. Birdsong, in particular, is incredibly comforting. Scientific studies show that listening to birdsong can help store attention and decrease stress. Birdsong was found to be the natural sound most commonly linked to stress recovery. There are some great apps and websites to learn more about birdsongs.
So what are you waiting for? Start with winter birdwatching today by looking at birds in your backyard or visiting public gardens, zoos, nature centers or national parks.
