Written on 3/2/2024 I have been watching birds for so long that a lot of species are attached to specific memories. I associate many birds with positive experiences, but some fly with my remorse and shame weighing down their wings. I am working on identifying these species in my head, then seeking them out, so that I can redefine our relationships. When I find them again, I will take a moment to honor the birds, and unburden the both of us from the painful associations that I have been forcing them to carry all these years.
I like that idea of "bird by bird" to experience and see your birds needed for your Big Year, Carl. That's all you can really do. 121 is a damn fine running headstart towards 300 species. I imagine you will be getting migratory birds heading your way this Spring and again in Autumn to up that number.
Eloquent and deeply touching. Thank you for writing and sharing. The drive to create new memories with certain species and overwrite old ones can be a strong motivator to bird—albeit not always purely joyful. It is nice to read about the deeper significance of birds to you.
I like that idea of "bird by bird" to experience and see your birds needed for your Big Year, Carl. That's all you can really do. 121 is a damn fine running headstart towards 300 species. I imagine you will be getting migratory birds heading your way this Spring and again in Autumn to up that number.
Eloquent and deeply touching. Thank you for writing and sharing. The drive to create new memories with certain species and overwrite old ones can be a strong motivator to bird—albeit not always purely joyful. It is nice to read about the deeper significance of birds to you.