Andrew Larsen and family birding for Global Big Day
I was recently playing with my four-year-old nephew when he looked at me and asked, “Do you want to hear my bird list?”
I listened intently as his sweet, lilting voice spilled over with wonder. One by one, he proudly named the birds he knew: Dark-eyed Juncos hopping along the ground, Black-capped Chickadees calling their cheerful “dee-dee-dee,” and Steller’s Jays flashing their bright blue feathers. He even knew there are two kinds of hummingbirds in western Washington.
I was amazed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of such a young bird lover.
Moments like this remind me that birding is about so much more than spotting a bird or checking a species off a list. Birds have become a shared language in my family—a source of curiosity, joy, creativity, and connection across generations.
What began as a passion among the elders in our family has gradually become part of everyday life for everyone. My sister-in-law and I even create bird-themed zines together, turning our love of birds into art. Family walks now include binoculars, excited shouts of “Look over there!”, and conversations about the birds around us.
Birding has changed the way we experience the outdoors together. It encourages us to slow down, notice the small details, and share moments of discovery with one another. A tiny bird hopping through a shrub can suddenly become the center of everyone’s attention.
There is something especially meaningful about seeing wonder for nature take root in a child. Watching my nephew grow excited about birds reminds me that stewardship is not just about protecting habitats and species in the present — it is also about nurturing curiosity and care in the next generation.
Organizations like Birds Connect Seattle help create opportunities for young people to build those lifelong connections with nature through camps, outings, education programs, and community experiences. Those early moments of wonder can shape how someone sees the natural world for years to come.
I still smile thinking about my nephew’s bird list. I hope he continues adding to it for decades to come.
Andrew Larsen
Birds Connect Seattle Board Member
If you have a young person in your life who enjoys nature, consider supporting the work of Birds Connect Seattle. Your generosity helps create opportunities for young people to discover birds, connect with nature, and build lifelong curiosity about the world around them.
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