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 spotlight features atlaser Arabella Pajoohi. Arabella is the Secretary for the New York State Young Birders Club.
Name
Arabella Pajoohi
Hometown
Hudson Valley
How You Started Birding
I always loved nature, even as a city kid. My parents like to tell a story about how we went camping when I was a few years old, and as we packed up to return to the city, I sat in the dirt and cried, telling them I loved the trees and forest and didn’t want to leave. As a family, we backpacked a great deal (and still sometimes do, although these days, we bird more) and spent a lot of time observing plants, butterflies, and nature in general, which of course, thanks to Charlie Roberto of Saw Mill River Audubon, led to birds. With Charlie’s mentorship, I participated in my first Christmas Bird Count at the age of five.
Favorite Birds
I love the Yellow Warbler for its bright colors, intelligent looking face, and little beady eyes. Additionally, I have a soft spot for bluebirds: the Eastern and Mountain (which, although I have never seen, I would love to encounter) Bluebirds, Lazuli Bunting (which, sadly, I have yet to see), Indigo Bunting, and Blue Grosbeak (add another to my list of want to see’s—if it is not obvious, that list is long!). Finally, I also have a soft spot for the brave little Black-capped Chickadees and Tufted Titmice—the warriors of backyards throughout New York! Honestly, there are so many birds to choose from that it’s difficult to make a decision. After all, there are no bad birds!
Motivation to Atlas
I am an aspiring conservation scientist and conservationist. By understanding where and when bird species are breeding, nesting, and courting, we are making a difference in the lives of birds and bettering the world. Given all of the issues that birds are facing with climate breakdown and loss of habitat, knowing that I could make this small difference was a large motivation for me.
Favorite Atlasing area
I had the opportunity to atlas at a site near my house thanks to Wendy Tocci (who was kind enough to support me when I inquired about this opportunity), and I visited this site multiple times. This particular area supports a variety of habitats (a field, woodland edges, streams), which means that it also has a wide variety of species. Not only did I have the chance to see Bobolinks, but I also heard the raspy begging calls of Barred Owl fledglings (a first for me). I also enjoyed the fact that within this atlas block, there is a remarkable bakery and an ice cream shop as well; it’s always good to have a treat after a hard day of atlasing!
Most Rewarding Part of Atlasing
Knowing that you are helping avian species and conservation efforts by being out there and atlasing is a great feeling; it is probably the most rewarding part of atlasing, in fact.
Favorite Atlasing Discovery
At the priority block near our house, my family and I discovered a Cedar Waxwing nest; it was fascinating to watch the nest swing back and forth—so similar to Weaver bird nests in Africa and Asia! I also loved watching Canada Warblers carry food and nesting material to their chosen location and equally loved observing Mourning Warblers foraging about in undergrowth. Finally, watching a Prairie Warbler feeding its fledgling as both hovered in mid-air was, to me, another great revelation, and truly displayed the remarkable abilities of birds; imagine having that ability!
Advice for someone “on the fence” about participating
Although some birders, and younger birders, think that searching for breeding birds might not be “very exciting,” without a doubt, it’s incredibly exciting to witness the lengths that parent birds go to in order to care for their young. There’s a thrill each time you find a nesting site and see a tiny head peak out or when you observe the gaping beak of a fledgling. What better way to spend a morning or afternoon than by giving back to the birds we all love. As birders in this time of climate breakdown, we should all do what we can to make a difference. Get out there and atlas!