At present, 96 million Americans identify as birdwatchers, which is about one in three people. What used to be an activity mainly for retirees has transformed into a popular national pastime.
“You don’t need fancy gear to watch birds,” one expert points out. “Just step outside, listen, and look. It’s like a treasure hunt—discover something unique.” Is it a sport? Some might argue that, but the bottom line is that birdwatching is now firmly rooted in mainstream culture, and the enthusiasm is palpable.
“I’m overwhelmed by the noise and chaos.”
I grew up in Ireland, where I hunted pheasants with my father, but birdwatching was also part of our outings. My dad, with his patience and keen eyesight, had an uncanny ability to spot kestrels from counties away. I, well, had the attention span of a magpie. Still, waiting quietly for birds felt unexpectedly calming.
Birdwatching isn’t about competition; it’s about being present, absorbing your surroundings, and finding peace without needing to articulate anything. Perhaps that’s why it’s gaining traction in America, a nation weary of noise and distractions.
These days, many Americans are overwhelmed by screens, loud noises, and constant notifications. Every buzz or ping pulls you away from the moment. Birdwatching offers a wonderful escape from that chaos. It rewards silence, fosters patience—a meditative experience centered around feathers. It’s hard to get lost in negativity when you’re focused on spotting warblers. Plus, unlike many hobbies, you don’t need to spend a fortune—just a decent pair of binoculars and a little curiosity will do.
Birdwatching is inclusive, too. You can do it anywhere—be it a city park, your backyard, or even a parking lot. Birds don’t care about boundaries. Whether you’re in Brooklyn or Baton Rouge, the shared experience of discovering birds can unite people who might not otherwise connect. A cardinal in a tree can even quiet the loudest debates. Or can it?
Meet Birding Bob
If you want to learn more, Robert DeCandido, known as “Birding Bob,” is your guy. A native of the Bronx, he’s led birdwatching excursions for nearly 40 years. He’s managed to charm tourists and sometimes chastise squirrels. His experiences range from studying owls in Central Park to tracking birds of prey in Nepal. With his extensive knowledge and passion, he has essentially transformed Manhattan into a bird paradise.
When asked why birdwatching has recently gained popularity, Bob suggests it’s a trend that’s been building since the late ’90s. “It’s akin to the internet’s rise,” he explains. He’s been leading these explorations since the late ’80s, so he’s seen the gradual increase in interest.
On whether the pandemic fueled this passion for a slower pace of life, he’s quick to dismiss that notion. “Not really,” he asserts. “Birdwatching was one of the few activities that remained accessible during lockdowns, especially when it involved being outdoors.” As the world slowed down, birdwatching remained a simple pleasure accessible to everyone.
“If there’s a park nearby, you can just walk there. No need for public transport or enclosed spaces,” he adds. For many, it became clear that birdwatching was social, fun, and a way to maintain sanity during uncertain times.
“Just step outside and take a look.”
Bob brushes off the stereotype of the “retired dentist with binoculars.” “Where does that even come from?” His tours showcase a diverse crowd—young people, tech workers, parents, and those just curious about nature. Birdwatching has become one of the rare opportunities in New York where people from various backgrounds come together, united by a shared interest.
He isn’t surprised by the increasing curiosity among Gen Z. “It’s affordable,” he notes. “People love nature, and as more media highlight birdwatching, a wider demographic is getting involved.”
It sounds straightforward, but it says a lot. Birdwatching provides a beautiful contrast to an age overwhelmed by the noise of technology and digital feeds. It’s a refreshing dopamine boost, and while it didn’t start in Silicon Valley, numerous apps now assist enthusiasts in tracking their bird sightings and experiences.
When asked if birdwatching might bridge political divides, Bob chuckles, saying, “No way; Americans will always find something to argue about.” Most birdwatchers lean left politically, so while there’s minimal conflict, he acknowledges that it exists. Bob has his views, but he shares them in a more observational way, like a biologist noting a bird’s plumage.
Then he brings us back to the essentials. “You really don’t need fancy gear,” he reminds us. “Just go outside and enjoy watching and listening to the birds. It’s like a treasure hunt. You don’t need a list; just appreciate what’s around you. Have fun and connect with your local environment.”
This could explain the rise of birdwatching across the nation. In a competitive culture, Birding Bob emphasizes that some experiences can simply be enjoyed. You can’t lose at birdwatching; all you need to do is show up, look around, and listen. It’s an affordable way to practice mindfulness. While we may be surrounded by progress bars and gadgets, birdwatching remains a serene alternative, free from competition and chaos, with the occasional pigeon landing nearby for added amusement.
