Please join us in congratulating Michele McDermott of Connecticut—winner of the March 2023 eBird Challenge, sponsored by Carl Zeiss Sports Optics. Michele’s name was drawn randomly from the 9,756 eBirders who submitted at least 31 eligible checklists in March. Michele will receive a new ZEISS SFL 8×40 binocular for her eBirding efforts. Here’s Michele’s birding story:
I first became interested in birds when my husband and I started walking during the pandemic. It was April and all the birds were singing, which sparked our curiosity about their identities. We soon began using Merlin’s Sound ID on our walks and would try to identify the birds by their calls and songs. It was always exciting when we were able to identify them correctly. As we continued to walk and observe, our interest in birds grew, and we started to bring cameras and binoculars with us to get a closer look.
“Last year was my first Spring birding. I was so taken by the beauty of this Northern Parula,” says Michele. Northern Parula © Michele McDermott / Macaulay Library
Now birding is a regular part of our walks, and we often plan our routes based upon where we might see certain species. It has been a fun and rewarding passion that has allowed us to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around us.
During a guided walk through the New Haven Bird Club, I was introduced to the eBird app. It quickly became an essential part of our birding experience. With eBird, we have a platform to record our sightings, contribute to the birding community, and most importantly become part of that community.
“This photo of a Northern Flicker I took on what would have been my brother’s birthday,” says Michele. “This bird was extremely cooperative and actually followed us around some, which I took as a gift from him.” Northern Flicker © Michele McDermott / Macaulay Library
Thanks to eBird, we have been able to connect with other birders and form new friendships. Last year our reported rare sighting of a Red Crossbill let to us meeting a good friend. It is amazing how birding has brought us together with others who are now our dearest friends.
Both my husband and I were disabled for many years due to long-term tick-borne illnesses. We have experienced some healing, which birding has contributed to by getting us outside and moving more. Unfortunately, our daughter was also affected and is still disabled but my hope is that since we will soon have 3 pairs of binoculars, she will soon be well enough to join us on our outings.