Released by the Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail —-
Photo by David Moynahan.
Many birders appreciate that the hobby of bird watching can be a relaxing escape from the pressures and stresses of daily life, but did you know there is research to back this up?
A study published by researchers at the University of Exeter showed that neighborhoods with more birds and more vegetation are associated with lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression! Other studies have shown that just spending time in nature can measurably lower our stress hormones, relax our pulse and lower our blood pressure.
These benefits apply whether you are an expert birder chasing new species for your list or a backyard observer who prefers to watch from the comfort of your patio. You don’t even have to be able to identify the species you see. We aren’t doctors, so please don’t take this information as medical advice – but if you need another excuse to go birding, this is a great one! Take a mindful moment to watch birds today, whether on the trail or in your backyard.