Mindful Birding and Bird Language

How to mindfully listen to what the birds are saying

Coopers Hawks always create a stir when they fly through a landscape, often evoking alarms and deadly silence among nearby birds. Photo: Shawn Weber/Audubon Photography Awards

Mindful bird sits are a simple yet potent practice that cultivates a quiet mind, relaxation, and a deep love for birds. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can tune into the communication between birds that reveals their secret wild worlds.

A bird sit is the perfect activity to do from your window, backyard, or stoop. Simply sit and quietly watch the birds for 10-20 minutes. You may notice how bird songs help you relax and how their alarms cause tension. While sitting, ask yourself, "What are the birds doing right now?" and simply observe their behaviors and vocalizations. You will discover the exciting drama in birds' everyday lives right outside your window.

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Cooper's Hawk

Latin:  Accipiter cooperii

Illustration for Cooper's Hawk

American Robin

Latin:  Turdus migratorius

Illustration for American Robin

Dark-eyed Junco

Latin:  Junco hyemalis

Illustration for Dark-eyed Junco

Black-capped Chickadee

Latin:  Poecile atricapillus

Illustration for Black-capped Chickadee

Western Scrub-Jay

Latin:  Aphelocoma californica

Illustration for Western Scrub-Jay

Red-tailed Hawk

Latin:  Buteo jamaicensis

Illustration for Red-tailed Hawk

Mourning Dove

Latin:  Zenaida macroura

Illustration for Mourning Dove

California Towhee

Latin:  Melozone crissalis

Illustration for California Towhee

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