Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Not all birds fly south for the winter
Not all birds fly south for the winter
Residents of Kendal—Crosslands Communities, a continuing care retirement community located in Kennett Square, reflect about bird watching the wonderful species that migrate to our area in the winter or who make this their home all year ‘round.
Tim Sterrett
The Canadian birds migrate south to our area so I do get out every day to see what birds are flocking about the campus. When I was young, my friends were birdwatchers and so you learn — you learn from each other. When I participate in walks with others, people say “what’s that bird?” and so you continue to learn as you bird watch. Last year, Janny and I were fortunate to count 122 different species of birds on our campus. A group of us also participate in the nation-wide Christmas Bird Count program. It has been operating since 1900. Around the end of December, nation-wide fellow bird enthusiasts count birds at their feeders and
in and around their home. Then, the data is sent and housed at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology where over the years, they are able to study trends on birds are how they are doing. And, one fact some people may not know, birds are descendants of the dinosaurs.
Janny Sterrett
Birding brings the extra benefit of walking. Each time I go out to look for birds, I probably walk 2 miles. I am fortunate to live on such a diverse campus with woods, trees, ponds, meadows, shrubbery, fields, and wetlands. I’m able to see so many different species. Redbreasted Nuthatch is a prize bird to see although rare in our area. Ravens, Red-shouldered, Cooper, and Red-tailed Hawks are often seen. Recently, some ducks were spotted. Ringnecked Ducks and Gadwalls were enjoying the campus. My mother enjoyed watching birds, so, I learned the hobby from her. But we also learn from each other. The more you do it, the more you know about these beautiful creatures. I used to be a bird bander. It was precious to hold a tiny bird in my hand. I simply enjoy the hobby.
Dale Kendall
I lead a bird walks group at Longwood Gardens twice a month and when I first started, there were 6 people in the walk. Today, I’ll have 30-50 people on the walk. So now, I’ve enlisted the help of my fellow residents to help guide the bird enthusiasts so that no one gets
discouraged from being with a large group and not seeing or hearing the birds. Birding brings joy. The joy of being a part of nature in their natural habitat. But, the joy is being with others too. While on our walks, we talk and socialize too. But, being quiet is also essential since we listen for different types of birds. I always have several handy and very easy to review books that help us identify a particular species that is unfamiliar. We’ve seen Juncos and White-throated Sparrows return to this area in the wintertime. Pine Siskin is another bird to keep a watchful eye for in the trees and on feeders. It’s never too late in life to experience the joy of birding.
Dot Mullestein
Birding keeps me close — close to the earth, the sky, flowers, nature. It is a hobby that although some say is never too late to learn — I say is never too early to enjoy as well. It is a hobby you can pursue throughout your lifetime. The fresh air and socialization with other fellow birders is a wonderful way to enjoy these lovely fellowships with friends of all types. And, birding brings me places. We go on trips together. Places such as Cape May and Barnegat, NJ, John Heinz Wildlife Refuge, the Conowingo Dam and even overnight trips to Chicoteague, VA, are fabulous places in our area to see various species of birds. Afterwards we go out to lunch and simply enjoy each other’s friendship.
Compiled and submitted by Michele Berardi, Director Community Outreach, Kendal— Crosslands Communities, Kennett Square