Why I Watch Birds: 13 Years, Thousands of Wings, and One Life-Changing Habit

 Hi, I’m Rifat — a backyard birder for over 13 years.

It started with a Blue Jay. I was sipping coffee one chilly morning in Ontario when a pair landed on the fence — bold, vocal, full of personality. That moment turned into a habit, and the habit into a passion.

Since then, I’ve watched thousands of birds across seasons: from curious cardinals in my backyard to secretive warblers deep in the brush. I’ve learned to slow down, to listen, and to notice.

Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby. It’s a way of seeing the world. And I believe it’s something anyone can do — whether you're feeding finches from your balcony or hiking trails in search of woodpeckers.

I’ve recently started writing about birds, especially backyard species like Blue Jays, Mourning Doves, and finches. If you're curious, feel free to check out my site:
👉 WildBirdLady.com – Field notes, guides, and stories from a lifelong birder.

In the next issue, I’ll share:

  • What I feed Blue Jays (and why they love it)

  • My favorite apps and tools for beginners

  • One habit that made my birding experience deeper

Thanks for reading — and if birds have ever made you pause and smile, I think we’ll get along just fine.

— Rifat Ahmed



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