I started birding and joined the list on almost exactly the same time frame
as Troy.  I whole-heartedly endorse his remarks, and would like to thank him
for having taken the trouble to articulate them so well.
I would particularly like to endorse his point #7, appealing for postings
from all locations.  A visitor from Mars might believe that birds can only
be found in a handful of Ohio spots.  Although I understand that those most
frequently posted about are the most fruitful, lets hear more from those who
cant always get to those locations.
Stephen

On 12/2/06, TEG <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>
> I was introduced to birding this past spring.
> I joined the mailing list about a month ago.
>
> As a beginner I have observed the following:
>
> 1.  It would be very helpful if specific directions or locations are
> included with more of the sightings posted.  I know this is mentioned in
> the guidelines already, but many posts do not include these details.
> Mentioning that the birds were seen "in the usual places" is not only
> vague, but it give the beginner the feeling that they are totally out of
> the loop.
>
> 2.  I have been pleased with off-list responses to my inquiries about
> specific locations.
>
> 3.  I find the clarifications and explanations offered by Kenn Kaufman
> and others to be informative and helpful.  Some of the information is
> over my head, but I am becoming familiar with new terms and concepts.
>
> 4.  Abbreviated bird names are DEFINITELY not helpful to the beginner.
> This is also mentioned in the guidelines.
>
> 5.  At first I thought the guidelines about hunting, cats, etc, were
> restrictive but upon watching the latest hunting thread develop I now
> fully agree with that guideline.  (No offense to those who posted in
> that thread.)
>
> 6.  It would be nice to discuss how to attract birds, the merits of
> feeding, etc, but I feel as others that this would be better done in an
> easily searchable message board.
>
> 7.  It is nice to hear about hotspots like Magee Marsh, etc, but I
> wonder how many birders are seeing birds on their daily drives and in
> out of the way places.  The more posts about small wildlife management
> areas, parks, cemeteries or inland lakes would be helpful to the
> beginner who is not equipped to travel to a hotspot across the state
> just yet.
>
> Thanks to all who have posted.  I have enjoyed being a silent observer
> and hope to post someday soon.
>
> Troy Gilmore
>
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