A team of three teenage birders, Otys Train, Jack Trojan, and Zade Pacetti, spotted their first bird, a monk parakeet, just after midnight in north New Jersey, marking the start of the 43rd annual World Series of Birding.
The competition, which takes place within New Jersey, requires teams to count as many bird species as they can in 24 hours, with the team spotting the most species declared the winner. The teenagers, accompanied by their dads, are competing in the high school division, where they have placed first for the past two years.
World Series of Birding
The World Series of Birding, founded by Pete Dunne in 1984, is a competition and fundraiser for conservation, organized by the nonprofit New Jersey Audubon. This year, 87 teams are participating in several divisions, ranging from experienced birders to first-graders just starting out.
The Pete Dunnelins, as the team is called, have been preparing for months, creating a detailed schedule and training their eyes and ears to catch every bird. Their goal is to spot 200 species, after tying for first place last year with 199 species.
The team’s strategy includes a spreadsheet-planned schedule, which they hope will lead to another win. However, they acknowledge that the unpredictability of nature can affect their plans, and they must be prepared to adapt.
Competition and Conservation
The World Series of Birding is not just a competition, but also a fundraiser for conservation efforts. The event brings together bird lovers of all ages, from experienced birders to young enthusiasts, to promote the importance of conservation and protect bird habitats.
The team’s participation in the competition is a testament to their dedication to birding and conservation. As they continue to compete and learn, they are also contributing to the larger effort to protect and preserve the natural world.
The World Series of Birding serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the impact that individual efforts can have on the environment, highlighting the need for continued support and protection of natural habitats.
