Until I joined Mrs. Kaufmann's 3rd grade class about 30 years ago, I had no interest in the world of birds. With my favorite teacher (she still is today!) everything was about nature - at least that is my memory - but especially about birds. Sometimes she even invited me and a few classmates to go exploring on the weekends.
Her passion infected me immediately. In my free time, I began to learn about the typical species common in Switzerland: sparrow, blackbird or buzzard. The longer I was involved with birds, the more expertise I gained.
Mrs. Kaufmann wrote in my friend book at that time: "Dear Benjamin, I hope that I can infect you a little with my love of nature and animals, so that you too can recognize the beauty of nature." She had definitely done that! Even more: I became a typical birder. Admittedly, sitting quietly for hours waiting for the perfect moment to take a snapshot doesn't particularly suit me. Rather, I am fascinated by the birds themselves. Thanks to the knowledge I gained in elementary school, I am now able to recognize many bird species.
What fascinates me most about ornithology is the discovery - in my opinion my greatest talent - and the identification of the species. For this process, I use the app "The Kosmos Bird Guide", where I also enter my personal sightings. Among the most spectacular are a kingfisher at Lake Thun (my favorite bird), a bald eagle in the USA, a bearded vulture in Graubünden, a spoonbill and a water rail in Cham, and last but not least our four young long-eared owls that grew up on the ABNOX site.
Interestingly, I used to be more fascinated by the big birds, while today I am just as enthusiastic about the small ones. A house sparrow, a dunnock, a robin or a redstart are usually not recognizable at first sight. All the more I am happy when I can identify them or distinguish them from each other.
My hobby is exciting, because I can pursue it everywhere and constantly expand my background knowledge: Whether on a business trip, at home in the garden or on vacation.
Ben on exploratory tour