Birdwatching Program at Buckham Library in Faribault

When my Dad was retired he took up a hobby that surprised me a little.  He became a birdwatcher.  Growing up I don't recall him ever talking about birds.  As he grew older he enjoyed them more and more.

He had a bird book by his recliner in the TV room which had a nice window where he set up multiple feeders to attract multiple species of birds.  Now that I have grown older I think I know why Dad enjoyed watching birds.

He was a very devoted Christian man who knew his Bible.  There are many references to birds in there.

Matthew Chapter 6 verses 25 through 27 says, "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life, whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear.  Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing?  Look at the birds.  They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your Heavenly Father feeds them.  And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are?  Can all your worries add a single moment to your llife?"

My personal favorite Bible quote about birds is Luke 12:6-7 where it says, "Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?  But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  Fear not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows."

Whether you walk the woods or sit in a recliner looking out the window bird watching is a leisurely activity that doesn't take a lot of strength or anything.

Buckham Memorial Library in Faribault recently sent out the following information.

"You can join the library on Zoom Wednesday, March 31 at 4:30 p.m. for another presentation about bird watching in Minnesota, this time with a focus on spring birds.

In this virtual bird talk presented by Amy Simso Dean, you'll learn how easy it is to get started or to get better at birdwatching (aka birding).  You'll also learn how to identify local birds, how to set up a bird feeding station, and you'll hear about easy community science projects you can do to help support bird conservation, some as easy as just watching birds.  You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Amy Simso Dean has been birding for over 25 years.  She is vice chair of Audubon Chapter of Minneapolis.  She also works part time at The Raptor Center and founded an after school birdwatching club for kids.  As much as she loves birding, she really loves getting people excited about birds and birding,

This presentation is open to bird lovers of all ages, but registration is required in advance.  Email the library or call 507-334-2089 to reserve your spot no later than Tuesday, March 30.  An email address is required so we can send you the Zoom meeting iinformation."

Are some of your favorites on this list or would you add another?