M’kimsey
If you suffer from anxiety/depression and enjoy the outdoors, I highly recommend taking up #birding it’s a world that is right in front of you that generally goes unnoticed. I’m living with PTSD and it’s been such a tremendous activity to help with the symptoms. #nature #naturephotography #BirdsOfMastodon #birdphotography #wildlifephotography #wildlife #mentalhealth #anxiety #depression
Jan 18, 2023 at 1:10amWeb
Show threadBert LatamoreJan 18, 2023

@edbb The nice thing about birding is you can do it anywhere, city or country. All you need is a bird book or ID app and a pair of binoculars.

Apps I use: Sibley Birds is a great ID book. Available as an ap and print book.

Merlin: Will i.d. birds from a photo taken on your phone.

EBird: Handy tool for keeping lists of birds you see. You can send your day's list to the people behind the ap, who use the data document changes in bird populations.

Show threadMichèle SharikJan 18, 2023
@edbb @BertL I agree it’s a great hobby! The Merlin app also does Sound ID, which I really like. I also participate in Project Feeder Watch, which I really enjoy.
Show threadM’kimseyJan 18, 2023
@BertL It’s not a proper field guide, but it sure is hilarious. It’s also surprisingly accurate.
Show threadStuart Celarier ❌👑Jan 18, 2023
@edbb
Our weekend #birding outing.
https://pdx.social/@VisualStuart/109702026381780460
Stuart Celarier (@[email protected])

Attached: 2 images We went to see the winter birds in #SauvieIsland, most especially the #SandhillCranes. They are the largest species of crane in North America and their distinctive call is haunting. We also saw #BaldEagle, #HarrierHawk, #Kestrel, #SnowGoose, #CanadaGoose, #Coot, #ScrubJay, #RedwingBlackbird, #WesternMeadowlark, and a few others. What a gorgeous day! If you go, don't forget to buy a wildlife parking permit at the store next to the bridge.

pdx.social
Show threadM’kimseyJan 18, 2023
@VisualStuart I’ve been trying to track down a kestrel for a year now. We have a decent amount in Ohio, but it’s been rather elusive for me so far.
Show threadStuart Celarier ❌👑Jan 18, 2023
@edbb They are such a treat, I know you will find one.
Show threadAnathema DeviceJan 18, 2023

@edbb backed up by science!

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jan/17/visiting-green-spaces-deters-mental-health-drug-use-researchers-find

Visiting green spaces deters mental health drug use, researchers find

Positive effects were stronger among those reporting the lowest annual household income, says Finnish study

The Guardian
Show threadEstelle4565Jan 18, 2023
@edbb
Indeed :)
You can also install one or more bird feeders infront of your windows. Then the birds will come to you.
Perfect for people suffering from #ptsd and have problems going outside :)
Show threadComrade Pangloss 🫖🥃Jan 19, 2023
@edbb is birding the same as ornithology?