Birding for Every BODY: Accessible Birding Adventures with Tucson Bird Alliance
Explore the wonders of birding with Birding for Every BODY, a program offered by the Tucson Bird Alliance in partnership with Arizona’s Pima County. Led by Marcia OBara, participants with physical limitations, such as COPD, can enjoy leisurely walks on accessible trails, free from competition and pressure. The outings cater to individuals who may struggle to keep up on traditional birding trips, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive experience for all.
During the accessible walks, OBara carefully selects trails that are easy to navigate and facilities that are wheelchair-friendly. She adjusts the pace of the walks to accommodate everyone, creating a supportive environment where participants can enjoy the beauty of nature at their own speed. The outings are open to individuals with wheelchairs and mobility scooters, although OBara encourages more people to join, regardless of their mobility devices.
Birdability, a nonprofit founded by Virginia Rose in 2018, aims to make birding accessible to everyone, regardless of disability. Participants with mobility issues, blindness, chronic illnesses, or other health concerns are welcome to explore the world of birding through various accessible methods. Birdability provides resources, such as a map of accessible birding locations and adaptive devices, to enhance the birding experience for individuals with limitations.
Occupational therapist Freya McGregor advocates for the use of binocular harnesses to make birding more comfortable for individuals with physical challenges. McGregor, who runs Access Birding, trains nature organizations on creating accessible trails for birding enthusiasts. By promoting inclusivity and accessibility in birding, organizations like Birdability and Access Birding are helping individuals with disabilities experience the joy of connecting with nature.
For Jerry Berrier, a blind birder from Massachusetts, birding is a source of happiness and connection to the natural world. Berrier, who has been blind since birth, uses his expertise in bird calls and songs to engage with birding enthusiasts through his website and podcast. He encourages blind individuals to participate in birding events, such as the national bird-a-thon, to foster a sense of community and belonging in the birding world.
Birding is not just a hobby; it's a way to experience the beauty of nature and connect with others who share a passion for birds. Whether you're a seasoned birder or new to the world of birdwatching, there are opportunities for everyone to explore the wonders of birding, regardless of physical limitations. Join a birding group, attend an accessible outing, or simply enjoy birdwatching from your own backyard. The world of birding is open to all, and there's a place for every BODY to experience the joy of birdwatching.