Different Types of Birders You Will Meet

The Tough Boy

The person that will interrupt the group leader (an esteemed ornithologist and naturalist) mid-speech to let everyone know that a brown-headed cowbird is on the rooftop behind us. He stands at the back of the group and wears a baseball cap.

Everybody thanks the Tough Boy—including the leader—because this is birding, and the only thing that prevails over etiquette and niceties in birding is birds. Duh.

Thank you, Tough Boy.

The Class Clown

Upon learning that ducks can rest by shutting down half of their brain while still using the other, will say:

“Sounds like being at work on a Friday!”

This will get many laughs. 

The Cool Girl

She stands at the back of the group and has a streak of purple in her hair. 

She is in her 70s.

The Teacher’s Pet

This is the person that has a sharp eye, and seems to spot all the good birds for the group leader. She will get so much recognition for pointing out an orange-crowned warbler, even though I saw a fox sparrow moments before, which is also pretty cool and praise-worthy.

It’s good though, I’m happy for her.

The Clique

This crew has been in the birding community for a while. They have their special binoculars, and they have plenty opinions on where to go for the best birds when. You want to talk to them, and ask them questions , but as a group they are too intimidating.

They are super welcoming and encouraging, because guess what? Almost every person I’ve met while birding has been super welcoming and encouraging. 

So what the hell are you doing reading this? Get OUT there.