Advocating Back Yard Birding As We Stay Home for Nevada

​Many of us have a bit more free time on our hands while most of the state shut down due to the pandemic. It has been a good opportunity to get caught up on those projects around the house and maybe resume some hobbies that went along the wayside while we were busy with our lives or learn new skills.

For me, the pandemic meant a lot of activities I would normally participate in on behalf of Red Rock Audubon were cancelled.  No Bioblitz or World Migratory Bird Day at Clark County Wetlands Park.  No Winchester Dondero Cultural Center Children's Festival or Nesters programs.  No opportunities to introduce the public to our amazing organization or to educate them on making their back yards safe havens that attract birds and other wildlife.
 
What to do?
 
Well I took the opportunity of Nevada's Phase I of the re-opening to give my neighbors a lesson in back yard birding.  Sitting in my neighbor's cul de sac at a socially acceptable 6 feet apart and limiting the group to nine plus myself met the state guidelines for a safe social gathering.  
 
Topics I covered:

• The importance of planting native plants
• How to choose the binoculars that are right for you
• Strategies to keep birds from striking your windows
• Why cats need to stay indoors
• Using the Merlin, Audubon and Song Sleuth apps to identify birds
• Choosing a bird guide book

I didn't make handouts but printed information for my neighbors to see and then emailed it to them.
 
Our world has changed and we all need to find ways to continue to enjoy our lives.  I will continue to advocate for back yard birding as my way to fulfill the Red Rock Audubon Mission:
 
            To bring people together for the conservation and enjoyment of birds, other wildlife,
            and the natural world throughout southern Nevada and neighboring areas.
 
Email me your story to post here on how you are supporting our mission.
 
Nancy Chang
socialactivities@redrockaudubon.com