Previous installments have focused on barriers that we have just about no control over. It's not our fault that many people have yet to "meet" birds. We don't dole out addresses or issue paychecks to most Americans. Of course, we didn't travel back in time to erect those barriers of yesteryear. Yet, we can, to some extent, shape how newcomers view the birding community as they consider whether or not to join our ranks in bird study and conservation efforts.
Sure, some people may have a less-than-flattering impression of "bird watching" and believe that everyone who enjoys birds fits into a certain stereotype. We have absolutely no control over of those preconceived, and often mistaken, notions.
But what about those who are developing a newly found appreciation for birds? These people will quickly learn that not all bird enthusiasts, like any other large group, act or think in the same way. There is no such thing as "Stepford birders".
As new people dabble in bird study, they are also dabbling in a new relationship with our community - who are these people? what are they all about? am I comfortable with them? do I belong with them? am I one of them?!
Don't we want to present ourselves in the best possible light as we start this important new relationship? Well, I assume we can agree that engaging new people with bird conservation is an important relationship.
The newcomers will ask questions and share stories that may seem rudimentary, redundant, and perhaps even boring. While the content of our responses will be important to them, even more so may be the tone with which we offer those responses. Warmth, patience, and enthusiasm will be more likely to encourage them in their bird pursuits. Condescension, annoyance, and brusqueness can make them feel less than welcomed, therefore diminishing their chances of a repeat visit.
The internet and social media can be a gift to bird outreach. Listservs and rare bird alerts quickly and effectively disseminate birding news such as rare sightings and bird conservation issues. On occasion, social media has reached millions with the beauty and wonder of birds, with the recent male Painted Bunting in Prospect Park being just one example.
Yet, these same outlets can also amplify and broadcast our own missteps in bird outreach. One common scenario is the random online bird ID request which is met with sarcastic comments like "invest in a field guide." Another face-palm moment comes after a future birder-to-be shares their excitement about spotting a Bald Eagle (or other cool but common species) only to have their joy squashed by jaded birders who drip with the "been there, seen that" disposition.
While these direct communications can upset the original commentator and make witnesses wary, there are other, perhaps unintended, transgressions that can paint a broader "you're not welcome here" banner for potential new birders. As social media is a public forum, general discussions and rants that mock the developing skills and knowledge of new birders or give a general impression of "you don't belong here unless you pass our test" should be avoided by birding organizations, their members, and even individuals as these sorts of comments will not endear us to potential newcomers but rather makes the lot of us seem to be an unwelcoming group.
The media and generations of folk tales have done plenty to cast us in unfavorable light. If we are to effectively grow the community of those who appreciate and work to conserve birds, we need to take caution in how we present ourselves to the world - in the field, online, and in our everyday lives.
