When is a blue bird not a Bluebird? - Page 2
© Terrie Murray
"Well," she said, "at least I can tell the difference between a robin and a bluebird in my yard."
I hate this part. "Tell me about your bluebird," I said. "Is it bigger or smaller than the robin?"
"Bigger. It has white on the front and is really noisy."
"Ummm - that's a Western Scrub-jay. Not a bluebird. I mean it's a blue bird, but it's not a bluebird."
She was embarrassed. I told her that I don't really care if people know what the birds are in their backyards, so long as they appreciate them and do what they can to protect them. Some people find it important to know what they are, but it isn't really necessary in order to appreciate them. I have a friend who maintains several feeders and an elaborate bird bath, which she will watch for hours. She calls every single one of the birds who come there a sparrow, including the jays and robins. I asked her once if she was interested in learning the different types. She said no, it just didn't matter to her. And that's just fine. There are times when I find her company to be much more pleasant than some of my hard-core birding friend who will spend hours trying to determine one subspecies of Dark-Eyed Junco or Song Sparrow from another. So if I ever start talking like that, remind me to pour a cup of tea, slow down, and relax. Scientific study and serious ornithology are important, but everything starts with just quietly paying attention to the birds.
Besides, if everyone suddenly got serious about learning all the names, I'd have no more fun questions to answer.
Go To Page: 1 2
