This combination of cover images shows "The Backyard Bird Chronicles" by Amy Tan, left, and "The Birds that Audubon Missed: Discovery and Desire in the American Wilderness" by Kenn Kaufman. The Canadian Press
The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in an unexpected surge in birdwatching among Americans confined to their homes for extended periods. For many, gazing out windows provided solace and entertainment, fostering a newfound appreciation for the natural world. Among these enthusiasts is acclaimed novelist Amy Tan, renowned for her work "The Joy Luck Club." Like approximately 45 million other Americans estimated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to partake in birdwatching, Tan immersed herself in this pastime, investing in birdseed and accessories to enhance her experience.
Tan's latest endeavor, "The Backyard Bird Chronicles," delves into her pre-pandemic fascination with birds, featuring entries from her nature journal and captivating illustrations borne from her newfound interest in bird illustration. This publication rides the wave of birdwatching's burgeoning popularity, alongside other recent releases like Christian Cooper's "Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World," which gained attention following Cooper's high-profile encounter in Central Park.
Adding to the literary landscape of avian exploration is Kenn Kaufman's upcoming release, "The Birds that Audubon Missed: Discovery and Desire in the American Wilderness." Kaufman, a lifelong birder and author of numerous field guides, uncovers the overlooked species absent from John James Audubon's renowned collection.
Tan's journey from identifying a mere three bird species to recognizing 63 reflects her deepening connection with nature. Through strategic measures like installing feeders and cultivating a bird-friendly environment, she attracted a diverse array of winged visitors to her backyard, ranging from robins to sparrows.
Tan's observations extend beyond mere sightings, evolving into a symbiotic relationship with her feathered companions. She takes joy in nurturing fledglings, providing sustenance and shelter amidst the challenges posed by external factors like wildfires. Her interactions with nature become increasingly intimate, exemplified by her fascination with the habits of Great Horned Owls and her willingness to endure discomfort for the sake of observation.
In documenting her journey, Tan encapsulates the transformative power of birdwatching, offering a poignant reminder of the enduring beauty and resilience found in the natural world.
DN
You
