Birds. They are one of nature’s most accessible animal species. Birds are so beautiful, majestic, social, gregarious, yet often loners, predictable yet unpredictable, indicators of ecosystem health, and just lots of fun. And birding is fun. Birding can be easy or challenging, and an excellent activity to enjoy with your spouse, partner, or friends. If only my career were the study of birds, teaching birds, photographing birds, but I will gladly settle for a little of each. I am young and healthy, about to retire, and excited that more time will be available to pursue learning and teaching about the wonderful world of birds.

A Laughing Gull at Cedar Island ferry landing in North Carolina.