In early May, we teamed up once again with Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance and Aldo Leopold Nature Center for Birding by Ear. A full group joined us as we explored the trails of the nature center and reaffirmed that with the right adaptations, nearly anyone can enjoy most hobbies, regardless of a disability. Blind, low vision, and fully sighted participants were on hand to learn new skills while connecting with an inclusive community of people who share a love of the outdoors.
Birding by Ear was a fantastic learning opportunity for both new and experienced birders. No matter one’s age, it is important to continue learning throughout our lives. The human brain operates on a “use it or lose it” principle. Studies show that older adults who regularly engage in learning perform similarly to adults 30 years younger on cognitive tests.
Tom Moritz, who is blind, has joined several Birding by Ear outings, including this year’s. Even with that level of experience, he says he is still learning new calls from the birds in our community. “It was both a fun-filled and very educational activity,” Tom says. “I plan on continuing to explore the local wildlife by wandering through parks near me.”
Experienced birders know that a bird’s sounds are just as unique as its color or shape. When an outdoor activity like birding is made accessible to people with disabilities, they feel more welcomed by the larger community. That in turn leads folks to get outside more and become more involved in their community. This not only reduces loneliness and social isolation but also helps break down stereotypes of what people with disabilities can do.
Shelby Frazier is fully sighted and is a part of several birding groups in Dane County. He says he joined Birding by Ear to hone his bird-identifying skills while learning about accessibility. “I’ve been wanting to learn more about bird calls for a few years, and it was really interesting to learn about the different sounds birds can make,” Shelby says. “We talked a lot about accessibility and the importance of having different options available so everyone can enjoy their time outdoors.”
Throughout the summer and fall, Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance will host Birding by Ear meetups for those who have already attended a Birding by Ear class in the past. The next event takes place on Saturday, June 13 at Lakeshore Nature Preserve in Madison. You can learn more at SWIBirds.org/All-Events/2026/6/13/Birding-By-Ear-Meet-Up.