9. Matt Felperin, Roving Naturalist

“Being outside is really important for our mental and physical health. Birding is a great way to get out and see something new. I really love getting into the stories of how I find some of these crazy rare birds or unusual birds because it's really about the adventure. And because birds fly, you never know what you're going to get.” – Matt Felperin, Nova Rover

Today’s episode comes with a warning - you may get hooked. Birding has recently surged in popularity as people crave safe engagement with nature. Matt Felperin, Nova Park’s Roving Naturalist, describes the adventure in birding, including exploring habitats, discovering new species, chasing rarities and simply finding joy and respite in birds. Matt also discusses an increasing diversity in the hobby, conservation, community science, and how to get started identifying the birds in your backyard. And yes, we also talk about Virginia’s very rare (and super adorable) avian celebrity from Greenland that has everyone in a frenzy. Lets Go!

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Matt Felperin-
NOVA Parks Roving Naturalist:  Facebook I Instagram
Matt Felperin Photography: Instagram I Website
NOVA Parks
Huntley Meadows Park, Alexandria
Friends of Huntley Meadows Park
eBird
American Birding Association
Christmas Bird Count
George Washington National Forest
Monongahela National Forest
Reddish Knob
Audubon Bird Guide App
Merlin Bird App
Nikon Pro Staff 3 Binoculars
Plant Nova Natives
Audubon At Home
Audubon Chapters in Virginia
Northern Virginia Bird Club
Virginia Society of Ornithology
IDEA Birders of MD and DC
Lets Go Birding Together (LGBT)
Black Birders Week
Black and Latinx Birders Scholarship Fund
All About Birds

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