Birdwatching's Moment

Birdwatching is having a moment.

There’s an article in the NY Times today about the joys of the pastime. I have been a birdwatcher —to one degree or another— most of my life, thanks to my father. I’m not good at it anymore, but I did study ornithology in college and a lot stuck with me. I agree, it’s really fun. Birds are amazing creatures.

Remember the woman (not going to say her name) who called the police on birdwatcher Christian Cooper, a Black man, while he was simply out in Central Park enjoying his pastime? Do we have that horrible incident to thank for the new spike in interest in birdwatching ? I hope not. Or is it simply that the editors of magazines are getting older and want to write about their favorite hobby? Perhaps the pandemic brought more appreciation for quiet activities and nature.

For my final ornothogy project in college, I drew birds, I had a great professor who let me do that. At that time, if I couldn’t be a cartoonist, I wanted to be a wildlife illustrator. I still dabble in drawing realistically, here are some recent drawings I did while in Florida a few years ago.

And one done on the Jersey Shore.

Finally, two more bird cartoons for you. I have done many over the years, and actually just today drew one about a Scarlet Tanager I saw this morning. Can’t show it to you yet, as I hope The New Yorker will buy and publish. Wish me luck.

These two are a bit cynical. But believe me, I do like birds a lot.

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Happy Tuesday! Happy birding!