Back to Birding (Sort Of)

 It.Has.Been.A.While.

The last time I wrote for my blog was over a year ago! But I'm brushing off the virtual cobwebs on this blog and reviving it to document my return to the world of birding - sort of. And nothing so dramatic.

Mask On! Birding in the new normal.

Recently, I've been volunteering again for the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines (WBCP) in guiding first time birdwatchers. I have to say that the few times I've gone out was truly refreshing! I surely felt rusty but happy to know that it all kind of comes back as the day goes on. I know I still have to get back into the groove though. 

Case in point: before starting the trip, I put on my binoculars over my head, hook my camera over one shoulder, and sling a reusable bag with my field guide and other stuff over the other shoulder only to end up just using my bins and the field guide occasionally. 

Me giving an intro to birding with all my "gear" on me

Another example: using the scope quick! I really have to relearn the skill of using the spotting scope, more urgently when there is a group kids eagerly awaiting to peek through to see a bird!!! Talk about pressure! Thankfully, birds have been cooperative during the times I've volunteered, staying put long enough to be put on the scope. 

I'm slowly reacquainting myself with neighborhood birding sites. These were the areas I birded in when I was a new birder years ago, practicing using my bins and ID skills. It's nice to know that birds still thrive in these places, even though the landscapes have changed over the years.

Birding in Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife

Strange, but I have developed this urge to rush through things and get things done as quick as possible. I have to remind myself to SLOW DOWN, to breathe easy (through my mask), and to allow myself to relax and enjoy the few hours birding. 

It has also become my "alone time" or my "me time" even if I am with a group of people. I dunno, it's hard to explain. But it's the time I get to do my own thing on my own, and for this I am truly grateful. It has done wonders for my mental health.

I have yet to really get back into birding and using my camera. It's debut was thwarted by the pandemic and we have yet to warm up to each other. But for now, I am really thankful for the small pockets of birding time I get and meeting new people (and children!) eager to see more birds. Sort of like a slow stretch after a long time of stagnation.

Hopefully, I will have more to write about soon. For now, I will ease back into the "game" slowly but surely. And no, my boy Elias won't be joining me yet... he'll drive away all the birds!!!