Birding, Reimagined: The Bold, Diverse Future of the Modern Birder

Ok, listen up! You may not have come across the term "modern birding" yet, but it's real, and it’s a term to help define those who have the courage to step up, embrace the unconventional, and be counted as leaders of a nature-driven movement.

For too long, birding has been seen through a narrow lens, an outdated stereotype of khaki-clad retirees, binoculars swinging, trudging through the wilderness. (Pardon to those who prefer the khaki birding look, we don't intend to offend!) A lot has changed, but like any ‘minority’ group, we have a long way to go. 

"At Lyfer, we embrace this evolution, and it’s our undertaking to change the way the world sees birding."

Us Modern Birders are as diverse as the birds we admire. We come from all walks of life, all ages and all styles. Some of us are city dwellers who spot the peregrine falcons on skyscrapers, others are devoted hikers, who know that they never hike alone, and many are creatives, athletes, and entrepreneurs whose passion for birds intertwines with their lifestyle. 

At Lyfer, we embrace this evolution, and it’s our undertaking to change the way the world sees birding.

Image of John James Audubon courtesy from PBS.org.

Birding, in some form, has been around for centuries. The practice of observing and recording birds dates back to the 18th century, when naturalists like John James Audubon meticulously illustrated avian species. 

By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, birding became a structured hobby, often associated with field guides, scientific journals, and conservation efforts. However, in the last decade, the culture of birding has undergone a massive shift. Today, it is driven by accessibility, technology, a bit of style and a renewed appreciation for nature’s impact on mental well-being.

Like most things in life, the rise of social media has played a significant role in this transformation. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have amplified birding stories, making it more relatable and engaging. Hashtags like #Birding and #BirdNerd (169.9 million views on Tiktok) now connects millions. Citizen science apps such as eBird and Merlin Bird ID have made participation easier than ever, turning casual observers into contributors to global conservation efforts.

"Tiktok stats for #birdsoftiktok - 824,000 posts, 11.5 billion view, while Instagram stats for #birdwatching are over 7 million!"

Beyond the digital world, birding has also become a powerful tool for mental health. Studies show that time spent in nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. Birds, in particular, have a profound ability to ground us in the present moment. Their songs, movements, and sheer presence remind us to slow down, look up, and reconnect. The more we immerse ourselves in their world, the more we begin to care, and the more we care, the more we fight to protect them.

“The more we immerse ourselves in their world, the more we begin to care, and the more we care, the more we fight to protect them.”

Modern birders are leading this charge, challenging old norms and making birding a movement. Here are some inspiring individuals who inspired us to start Lyfer.  Just a few excellent individuals who are redefining what it means to be a birder today.

From Top Left to Right: Christian Cooper, Ollie Olanipekun, Matt Spracken aka RocknRollBirder, Jonathon Macris aka Jonny Nature, Bonner Black, From Bottom Left to Right: Stella Donnelly, Nadeem Perera, Nature with Georgia, Dr Cesar Puechmarin aka Death By Birding, Benny Isaac Jacobs-Schwartz aka Birds by BIJS.

Check out these passionate birders and give them a follow:

• Bonner Black (@bonnerblack) – Hilarious, talented and passionate birder and musician combining art and conservation.

• RocknRoll Birder (@rocknrollbirder) – Brilliantly informative and super cool Matt Spracklen blends music, culture, and birding with a fresh perspective.

• Nature with Georgia (@naturewithgeorgia) – Educating and inspiring through vibrant nature content.

• Birds by Bijs (@birdsbybijs) – Stunning photography showcasing bird beauty worldwide.

• Death by Birding (@deathbybirding) – A hilarious take on birding that makes it more accessible to everyone.

• Ollie Ranger (@ollie_ranger) – Fashion and design focussed Ollie showcases incredible bird photography and conservation stories.

• Stella Donnelly (@stelladonnelly) – Celebrated Australian musician and bird enthusiast advocating for avian conservation.

• Birdneerdem (@birdneerdem) – Promoting birding as an inclusive and exciting activity for all.

• McGorlick (@mcgorlick) – A mix of urban vibes, a bit of humour, education, and love for birds in engaging content.

• Flock Together (@flocktogether.world) – A global community breaking barriers and making birding inclusive.

• Jonny Nature (@jonny_nature) – A naturalist and straight-up adventurer bringing birding to new audiences.

• Christian Cooper (@christiancooper) – Birdwatcher, author, and advocate for diversity in birding, known for his role in raising awareness about inclusion in the birding community.

At Lyfer, we know that birding is more than a hobby, it’s a way of seeing the world.  We also believe that the more we talk about it, the more we normalise it as part of everyday life. And as we raise awareness, we increase the chances of preserving bird species that need our attention now more than ever. The modern birder is anyone who looks up, listens, and takes notice. No rules, no dress code—just a shared passion for the beauty and importance of birds.

This is the future of birding. Diverse, bold, and full of purpose.

Tone back in for part two of our exploration about the Modern birder, as we set out to define our movement even more, and speak to those who continue to lead the way.