Written by Jackie Jankowski, CTRS, Superintendent of Inclusive Recreation at FVSRA

In celebration of April’s theme, “Path to Nature,” I flocked to the opportunity to write this month’s blog post.

Before 2020, birding was a hobby I had never considered. Sure, I loved nature, traveling, and spending time outside—but if you had asked me then, a bird was a bird. One day, that all changed.

I looked outside and noticed a large bird on my feeder. Bright reddish-orange feathers covered its head as it pecked its long beak repeatedly at the cake of suet. Why had I never noticed how different birds were from one another? A sudden spark of curiosity ignited within me.

What Is a Spark Bird?

Watching in awe of what I now know was a red-bellied woodpecker, I later discovered the term “spark bird.” A spark bird is the bird that first ignites someone’s interest in birdwatching—the one that makes you say, “Whoa… what is that? I need to know more.”

It’s a term birders use to describe that magical moment when a particular bird sparks a lasting love for the hobby. It could be a bright red cardinal outside your window, a great blue heron in a misty marsh, or even a scrappy little nuthatch doing something weird on a tree trunk.

It’s personal, often a bit poetic, and almost always unforgettable.
Think of it like a gateway bird—the one that opens your eyes (and maybe your heart) to the world of birds.

I consider myself lucky that my spouse was just as intrigued as I was. Together, we’ve spent the last five years embracing the pure joy that birding can bring.

Discover the Joy of Birding: A Therapeutic and Accessible Hobby for Everyone

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a hobby that offers both relaxation and accessibility can be transformative. Birdwatching—or birding—stands out as an activity that not only connects individuals with nature but also provides significant mental health benefits and is adaptable to people of all abilities.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Birding

Engaging with birds and the natural environment has been shown to have profound positive effects on mental well-being. Studies indicate that spending time observing birds can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and enhance mood. For instance, research highlighted by the Audubon Society reveals that time in nature can decrease stress hormones and improve cognitive functions.

Birding also encourages mindfulness— a practice known to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The focused attention required to observe and identify birds helps individuals stay present, diverting attention from intrusive thoughts and fostering a sense of peace.

Mindful birding—also known as ‘slow birding’ or ‘casual birding’— is the practice of birding quietly, intentionally, and gently, with the goal of deeply engaging with the birds and nature around you. For many folks with accessibility challenges, this slower pace is the most enjoyable way to bird. But truly—there’s no wrong way to bird. If you’re noticing, you’re birding.

Birding: An Accessible Hobby for All

One of the most remarkable aspects of birding is its inclusivity. Organizations like Birdability are dedicated to ensuring that birding is accessible to everyone, including those with mobility challenges, vision impairments, chronic illnesses, and other health concerns.

Birdability focuses on creating welcoming and safe outdoor experiences, advocating for accessible trails, and providing resources to help individuals find birding locations that meet their needs.

Adaptive equipment and thoughtful trail designs have made it possible for individuals with disabilities to enjoy birding fully. For example:

• Accessible observation platforms and bird blinds with varying window heights accommodate birders who use wheelchairs.
• Benches along trails offer resting spots for those who need them.

Birding can—and should—be for everyone.

Getting Started with Birding

Starting your birding journey is simple and requires minimal equipment. Here are a few easy steps to begin:

1) Start Local

Explore nearby parks or even your backyard to observe common bird species.
Some of my favorite spots include:

• Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia
• Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook
• West DuPage Woods Forest Preserve in Winfield

2) Equip Yourself

A pair of binoculars and a field guide or a birding app can greatly enhance your experience.

Recommended Free Apps:

• Merlin Bird ID: Identify birds by photo, sound, or description. User-friendly and incredibly accurate.
• eBird: Track sightings, keep a life list, and contribute to a global birding database.

For those with specific accessibility needs, Birdability’s Adaptive Birding Equipment Guide is a fantastic resource.

3) Join a Community

Connecting with other birders can deepen your enjoyment and learning.

• DuPage Birding Club – Offers walks, events, and community.
• Morton Arboretum Birding Programs – Great local opportunities to learn and explore.
• Birdability Webinars – Not ready to hit the trail? Learn from home at your own pace.

4) Be Mindful and Patient

Birding is as much about the experience as it is about the sightings.
Take your time, enjoy the process, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.

Final Thoughts

Birding is more than a hobby. It’s a chance to connect with nature, find stillness in your day, and join a welcoming community that celebrates the skies above.

Each day, birding gives me tiny moments of mindfulness. On my way into work, I tune my ears to the parking lot birdsong at FVSRA, silently greeting the house finches’ sweet melodies and the rusty-swing call of the red-winged blackbirds.

You don’t need a passport, a perfect trail, or a plan.
You just need to look up.
The birds are already waiting.