Bird watching typically conjures up images of people pursuing a relaxing
day of staring into the sky with binoculars. Ah, but then there is the
competitive side of birding.
Flying Emus…err, Elbows
For many people, something is only worth undertaking if there is an
element of competitiveness. With bird watching, no such element really
exists unless you include adding to your life list as a competition. Even
if you do, it is a rather vague, indirect form of competition. This is
where bird watching competitions come in.
Also known as "bird days" or "big days", bird watching competitions are
typically one or two day events held in a specific geographic area. The
idea behind the competition is to bring a bunch of birding enthusiasts
together and see who tally the most species in a particular time period.
Since the honor code is tied into reporting your tally, the competitive
aspect of such competitions isn't overdone. This isn't a situation like
bass fishing where they roll you into a stadium afterwards to count your
sightings in front of screaming crowds. Then again, perhaps an opportunity
presents itself…
Can you imagine ESPN covering the event?
"Bob, it looks like Longbill Louie is in fine form today. Look at the way
he balances those binoculars and what rotation!"
Probably not, but a man has to dream!
Back in reality, participating in a bird watching competition is a good
idea for two reason. First, the organizers tend to pick spots with lots of
species you may not have documented before. Second, it is a tremendous
opportunity to meet other people who have caught the itch. This often can
lead to future opportunities to bird watch with new friends in previously
unknown areas.
If you must compete, there are official bird watching competitions. The
World Series of Bird Watching is put on by the New Jersey Audubon Society.
Teams of birders are formed and pitted against each other in early May of
each year. With humorous names such as the "four loons", "stokes stompers"
and so on, it is a good time. The next competition is May 13, 2006, so you
have plenty of time to get in top birding form.
Birding competitions are a bit serious for me, but to each his own. Having
a Big Day, however, is a great way to get kids interested in watching.
Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of writing journals. Bird
watching journals are great bird watching gifts for bird watching tours
and vacations. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com for more bird watching
articles.
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