Birdwatching Event #2

Author: William Xue

Following the success of the previous birdwatching, CPMentorship’s Wellness Committee, led by Ranya Zhang and William Xue, returned to the outdoors and hosted the second birdwatching. This event was designed to foster mindfulness, environmental awareness, and community connection through the simple joy of observing birds in their natural habitats. 

The event was again in collaboration with the Youth Science Institute (YSI), which shares a common goal of connecting youth to science and nature through the environment, pairing well with the Wellness committee. 

On the crisp, sunny morning, more than 25 students, parents, and community members gathered at the Alviso Baylands Trail, ready to spot and learn about new birds. Among them was San Jose District 4 Councilmember David Cohen, who joined the walk and birdwatching. 

The heart of the event was Allyson Dudzinski, Education Manager at YSI, who once again guided the group through a 2-hour walking tour with expertise, warmth, and fun bird facts. Her knowledge about the local bird wildlife and habitats ensured that each participant felt a stronger connection to not only birds but also the environment as a whole. 

Every participant received their own pair of binoculars and a bird guide of the area. Some younger attendees were eager to use binoculars for the first time while learning about local birds. 

Allyson encouraged everyone to listen closely to bird sounds and calls to observe their behaviors and patterns. Each stop in the walk came with a new bird species or simply fun facts about birds. Kids often asked questions and were eager to call out when they saw a new species of bird. 

Conclusion

In a world where people are often consumed by screens and fast routines, birdwatching gave us a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature and the community. Attendees left with new knowledge, bonds with the community, and a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity close to them. Birdwatching #2 was another step forward in the Wellness Committee’s mission of promoting mental and physical well-being through connections to the environment and outdoors.