Membership has its benefits

By Kenena Hanson, Houston Audubon Member

Growing up with autism, it can be difficult to make connections with other people. I have been in love with birds from a very young age and have always wanted to be around them. Expressing my love for birds can seem obsessive to someone on the outside, but with Houston Audubon, I have found a group of people that understand me. I joined Houston Audubon this past year because my college advisor from Oregon State University encouraged me to join some professional organizations to make connections and find ways to use my college experience in the real world. I have been on Houston Audubon member field trips to Bolivar Peninsula, the Wetlands at Riverstone, and the Memorial Park at Sugarland. There was also a member evening in High Island to see nesting birds up close and personal.

Houston Audubon allows me the ability to view and study a variety of bird species in safe environments while also giving me room to be comfortable. I highly recommend the membership excursions because the staff and other members do an amazing job of pointing out and providing information about the birds seen. Some of my favorite birds that I have been able to observe include the Roseate Spoonbill, the Snowy Egret, a Kestrel, an Osprey, and a Caracara. These trips are not only amazing because of the experiences with the birds, but also because I get to share these experiences with my dad, who has joined me as a member. I impatiently wait for the email that lets me know about upcoming events and outings. I am already looking forward to the Purple Martin Watch Parties in the summer and Houston Bird Week in the fall.

[You can sign up to become a member today at www.houstonaudubon.org/join]