The individuals behind the atlas effort are just as interesting as the birds we’re observing. Every atlaser brings a distinct set of talents to the project, and there is no single “type” of person who gets involved. This month’s spotlight features the Assistant Coordinator, Jared Feura. If he’s not watching or banding birds, you may see him out fly-fishing or hiking with his dog.
Name
Jared Feura
Hometown or county
Bradford, PA
Role in the Atlas
Assistant Coordinator
How you started birding
I began identifying birds as a child due to spending lots of time in the woods near my home. However, I started truly birding during my undergrad at the University of Pittsburgh by joining a newly formed Birding and Ornithology club as a way to get out of the city. A club trip where I got to see Rough-legged Hawks hovering and hunting cemented my desire to continue birding. I have been birding since finding that club in 2005.
Favorite birds
Jared holding a Kentucky Warbler
My favorite birds constantly change, usually based on the research projects in which I am participating. Saw-whet owls are among my favorites to band. Black-throated Blue warblers are my favorite to find during the breeding season and migration. I will never turn down a good look at Black Tern in full breeding plumage. Oh, and Nelson’s Sparrows, can’t leave out the Nelson’s Sparrows.
Motivation for becoming Assistant Coordinator
I am passionate about bird conservation from both the regional and local scales. Looking at bird populations across the entire state and getting out into individual blocks looking for behaviors in the same project is a win-win for me!
Prior atlasing experience
I have no experience atlasing, yet!
What you are most excited for in the third Atlas?
I am excited to explore several new regions of New York, and I look forward to finding myself in some difficult blocks chasing down breeding confirmations.
A favorite non-bird thing to do
Fly-fishing, canoeing, and hiking with my dog, Gandalf