Birding Beginnings

Our newly constructed neighborhood lacks the mature trees which I assume are necessary to host a great variety of birds. I write “which I assume” to acknowledge just how novice I am at one of the richest and historic hobbies around: birding.

My journey began last year in this very same neighborhood as Esme and I were walking home from the park. A blur of dark grey and blue feathers erupted from the shallow retention pond. I gazed up at what I could only naively describe as an ugly Articuno flying away from us. It was a Great Blue Heron. It was my “spark bird.”

Since then, I observed most of the common species in my geography aided by Merlin, e-Bird, a few pocket guides from HEB, and a smattering of books I’ve rented from the library. I’ve been very lax about documenting my observations (mostly done with family in tow) but nonetheless have kept track of all the species. I’m making a more concerted effort this year.

I started January 1st with two “lifers” spotted at my mother-in-law’s house: the Yellow-Rumped Warbler and the American Goldfinch. Two new sightings right out of the gate? We might have to buy new pillows if my head gets any bigger.

To round out the rest of January 2025, I’ve seen the crows, turkey vultures, black vultures, house finches, pine warblers, great egret, red-tailed hawk, American Kestrel (a personal fav), and the tufted titmouse (lifer!).

Please consider donating to the Audubon Society, especially as environmental protects are cut during this next presidential term.

American Kestrel — currently my favorite bird, 2024.