Have you ever wondered what birds think and say about birders? Here are ten representative statements I overheard in the field.
1. “Ah, the humans are back. Must be checklist season.”
2. “Honestly, I don’t mind the attention. It’s the misidentifications that hurt.”
3. “One of these days, I’ll follow them home and just stare at them for hours.”
4. “They call me a skulker. I call it privacy.”
5. “Let’s fly away right when they almost get the perfect shot—just for fun.”
6. “So they can identify me from 100 meters away but still walk into trees?”
7. “Oh look, they brought a field guide. How adorable.”
8. “Let’s see how long we can keep them guessing: am I a juvenile or just molting?”
9. “We should start a ‘Watchers of Birdwatchers’ club. We’d have great stories.”
10. “Honestly, I’m flattered. But also a little creeped out.”
Photo: Spotted Owlet, Delhi area, India
Great list and so true!
Thanks, Cathy!
Hahaha! Good ones!
Kai, I absolutely loved this one! So many quips that we just know they are thinking! Thanks for a good chuckle!
I am convinced Nemesis birds warn each other to flee the scene when a birder arrives who desperately needs to see them… more research is needed