As warmth begins to grace the Andrews University campus, signs of spring have begun to appear. From the longer, sunnier days to the flowers beginning to bloom, the changing of the seasons is evident. There is perhaps one event that heralds the disappearance of winter above others: the return of the birds. From excited chirping within the early morning hours to the gathering of flocks among birdfeeders, the spring migration of the birds remains a fascinating phenomenon each year.
The return of the birds also allows for an increased variety for bird-watching. A hobby that can quickly be learned, birding allows for humans to interact with nature, as well as with others. An avid birdwatcher, Dr. Tom Goodwin, a biology professor within Andrews University, gave us some insight to the activity, as well as some tips for beginners.
How did you get into birdwatching?
I initially got into birding when I took an ornithology course in college, and I was a very active birder for several years after this course. Then, after many years without being too active, I got interested once again a couple of years ago when my wife and I were preparing to go to Costa Rica, where bird life is incredibly diverse. I’ve been hooked again ever since!
Why would you recommend this activity?
First, birding gets you outdoors, and that is a good thing. Second, there is something very satisfying with looking for a new or rare bird, and making an identification based on little details of color or behavior. It’s kind of like detective work! And third, you get to meet interesting people who also like being outdoors. (The latter was especially nice for me: I met the young lady who is now my wife on a birding trip many years ago, and we still enjoy birding together!)
What materials and methods would you suggest for beginners?
Get a decent pair of binoculars and a bird identification app such as the free Merlin Bird ID app. And it helps to find someone who likes to bird and can help you get oriented to the common birds in the area and how to identify them. Once you get into birding a bit, you may also want to sign up for eBird, where you can record all the birds you’ve identified by location and see what others have seen too.
Any suggested prime locations nearby?
Well, during the migration season for warblers (small, colorful birds that are fun to spot), Beaver Point here on campus can be a good spot. And at many times of year, just walking the trails and roads around the Agricultural Education Center on campus can yield quite a few birds. And there are many excellent places off campus too.
Have you had any spiritual reflections while birdwatching?
I’m commonly struck by the beauty and variety of creation, and as a believer this often lifts my thoughts heavenward.
A Saturday Afternoon Birding List: Dr. Goodwin’s Suggestions
Here are the 10 most common birds right now in Berrien Springs, according to the Merlin Bird ID app. You can easily see all of these on campus, if you include the Agricultural Education Center in your walk!
- Northern Cardinal
- Canada Goose
- American Crow
- American Robin
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Red-winged Blackbird
- Tufted Titmouse
- White-breasted Nuthatch
- Blue Jay
- Black-capped Chickadee
Originally published on March 10, 2021.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.