Joining a birding organization can help bird watcher soar to new heights of enjoyment with this popular hobby. There are many types of organizations to join, including:
- Wildlife conservation and rehabilitation groups
- Local and regional birding groups
- Educational associations about birds and wildlife
- Online birding and birder networks, including forums
By joining such organizations, birders can take advantage of a range of benefits.
Birding Travel
Many birding organizations arrange local and regional trips to birding hotspots for dedicated bird watching. By being part of an organization that plans such travel, individual birders can benefit from group rates and local expertise while finding new birds to add to their life lists. Organizations may also arrange or visit birding festivals during peak migration and breeding periods, events that can be enjoyable for both novice and experienced birders.
Publications
Many birding organizations offer members-only publications, including print and electronic newsletters, magazines and journals. These publications may include the same types of valuable information found in magazines for birders, including:
- Bird profiles
- Conservation news
- Feeding tips
- Product reviews
- Birding advice
Members-only publications also frequently feature interviews with expert members, discounts on merchandise and other exclusive benefits.
Education
By joining a birding organization, bird watchers of any level can learn more different species, including rare birds. Regular lectures and a wide range of online tools and resources can add new dimensions to birding. Members may also have the opportunity to lead birding trips, organize discussion groups and otherwise share their knowledge of birds with fellow members.
Bird Conservation
Many birding organizations donate a percentage of members’ fees and other proceeds to conservation groups that focus on preserving birds’ habitats and assisting endangered species. Organizations may be involved with promoting local wildlife and bird conservation and protection initiatives, giving members opportunities to be involved with conservation efforts. In many cases, members’ dues may be tax deductible as a charitable contribution because of the organization’s involvement with wildlife conservation and preservation.
Local Updates
By connecting with other birders on a local level, organization members can quickly share information on local and regional species such as rare bird sightings, migration patterns or new birding events. Being connected to other expert birders also allows members to easily seek assistance with finding a specific bird they want to see or to identify an unknown species.
National Connections
Many birding organizations feature national hierarchies with local and regional chapters. This gives birders the best of both worlds: a local organization that understands their specific birding areas as well as a connection to the larger birding community that can be useful for travel, education and general birding enjoyment. Many birding associations maintain a regularly updated list of active members to keep birders connected with ease.
Just as many birds are highly social and enjoy being part of a flock, birders who join birding organizations can enjoy many benefits of sharing expertise and experience with other members.
