Checkup

ayo bird-watching club takes flight: Employees meet regularly to catalog winged wildlife on campus

Diane Reed (center in red and white) leads Mayo employees on weekly bird-watching excursions around campus.

On any given day at Mayo Clinic, you might see a doctor or two, nursing staff rushing by or administrators heading to meetings. But don't be alarmed if you notice a gaggle of Mayo employees tiptoeing through the grasses with binoculars and cameras. They're members of the Mayo Birders, a newly-formed birdwatching group whose members are cataloging the variety of birds in their work environment.

"The unique and attractive landscaping at the clinic offers really good birding habitat," says Diane Reed, who works in Medical Records and founded the group. "We already have a list of nearly 90 species of birds we've seen on campus."

The Mayo campus is home to resident nesting species as well as migratory birds throughout the year. Reed says there are more than 470 verified types of birds in Florida, which has the third greatest number of bird species in the nation. Birds sighted on campus include several species of herons and egrets. Resident nesting birds, such as brown-headed nuthatches, pine warblers and three species of woodpeckers, have been observed. Migratory warblers and raptors, such as falcons, hawks and eagles, also have been seen.

Woodstork

Reed had been keeping statistics on birds she'd spotted on campus for four years when she decided that others might enjoy nature walks and bird watching. About 25 employees responded to notices in the staff newsletter, and up to 10 people participate in the weekly outings. Since birds are most active in early morning and late afternoon, those are the times the bird-watchers usually head out on excursions.

"We first meet in the parking lot and observe the area for birds," says Reed. "Then we leisurely walk the area searching for sights and sounds. When we see a bird, we study it and review field marks, behaviors and characteristics. Usually, a walk will last a little over an hour."

Medical librarian Ann Farrell, one of the first members, says bird watching has made her more observant in life, not just when she's out birding. Being able to tell the difference between a mockingbird and a mourning dove feels like an accomplishment since she has no prior experience identifying birds.

Members of the Mayo bird-watching club spot birds on campus.

"I think we are fortunate that we can enjoy our campus and appreciate the nature around us," says Farrell. "Being inside all day makes me enjoy it even more."

The group is open to everyone who would like to learn about birds. No experience is required. Reed's goal is to involve more patients and visitors, especially since many have extra time at the clinic between appointments.

"We're really excited about this," says Reed. "To my knowledge this is the first club of this type at a work site in this area."

So next time you're at Mayo Clinic and see some people, binoculars in hand, peering at the treetops — ask them what they see. They may take you under their wing for a tour you won't forget.