Whether you’re hiking ancient forests or picnicking in an urban park, birds are all around us. From the common pigeon on a Philly stoop to a bald eagle soaring above the Susquehanna River, the avian world is vast in Pennsylvania.

Birding is the observation of birds in their natural habitats. Often seen as a hobby for old fogies, the activity has gotten a boost of interest and young blood as a result of the pandemic. When we were required to self-isolate and avoid travel, people found birding as a way to explore the natural world in their own backyards.

With binoculars in hand and with an acute ear, Pennsylvania birders have the opportunity to identify hundreds of bird species without every traveling outside of the Commonwealth. From Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, new birders are exploring our shared outdoor spaces.

This growing hobby now has roots in places and communities that have not been represented in the past. Black and brown, LGBTQIA plus and impaired communities are forming their own birding groups, clubs and organizations.

They are showing that birding is a hobby for everyone, everywhere

And for this episode, I’m thrilled to speak to one of those people that are making birding and the outdoors more inclusive and accessible for all Pennsylvanians. No matter your race, background, sexuality, physical ability, income or experience.

On this episode, I speak with Jason Hall. Jason is Philadelphia-based birder and founder of the In Color Birding Club in Philadelphia.

Be sure to check out and support our sponsors for the 2024 season:

Keystone Trails Association
KTA is dedicated to providing, preserving, protecting and promoting recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities in Pennsylvania. Use code "HELLBENDERS" to receive $5 off a yearly membership.

Purple Lizard Maps
Purveyors of incredibly detailed, highly curated, and waterproof trail maps of Pennsylvania's state forests. Find them at your local outfitters, bike shops, and bookstores or visit PurpleLizard.com.

Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation began in 1999 as a statewide nonprofit organization to provide a voice for the Commonwealth’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest land. They rally volunteers, raise funds, and advocate for these precious lands. Join the movement at PAParksandForests.org to preserve and enjoy our outdoor treasures.

Common Loon & Ruffed Grouse Sound Credit: NPS & MSU Acoustic Atlas/Jennifer Jerrett
Warbling Viero Sound Credit: NPS/Jennifer Jerrett

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Hosting, production and editing: Christian Alexandersen
Music: Jon Sauer
Graphics: Matt Davis