The Ultimate Birding Adventure: "The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder"

For avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the concept of a "Big Year" is the ultimate test of birding prowess. It involves setting out to identify and count as many different bird species as possible within a single calendar year, a challenge that requires immense dedication, skill, and a dash of adventure. In his captivating book, "The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder," author Kenn Kaufman chronicles his extraordinary journey as he embarked on this ambitious quest to set a new world record.

Kingbird Highway: The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder

by Kenn Kaufman

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5031 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	338 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Kaufman's Background and Preparation

Kenn Kaufman is a renowned ornithologist and author who has dedicated his life to studying and observing birds. With over four decades of experience in the field, he was well-prepared for the daunting task of a Big Year. Prior to embarking on his journey, Kaufman spent years planning his itinerary, studying maps, and networking with birding contacts across North America. His dedication and meticulous preparation would prove invaluable as he navigated the complexities of a Big Year.

The Adventure Begins

In January 2015, Kaufman began his Big Year with an ambitious goal of reaching 700 species, an unprecedented target that had never been achieved before. He packed his car with essential gear, including binoculars, a spotting scope, a camera, and an ever-present notebook for recording his sightings. As he embarked on his journey, Kaufman was accompanied by his loyal dog, Ellie, who became an indispensable companion throughout his adventure.

Endless Miles and Bird Encounters

Kaufman's Big Year took him on an epic journey across the vast landscapes of North America. He traveled over 60,000 miles, visiting every state in the contiguous United States, as well as several provinces in Canada. Along the way, he encountered a breathtaking diversity of bird species, from the common cardinals and blue jays to the elusive and endangered ivory-billed woodpecker. Each sighting was meticulously recorded, not only for the purpose of counting, but also for capturing the beauty and uniqueness of each encounter.

Challenges and Triumphs

A Big Year is not without its challenges, and Kaufman faced numerous obstacles throughout his journey. He braved extreme weather conditions, navigated treacherous terrain, and endured countless hours of driving. There were times when frustration crept in, as elusive birds proved difficult to find. But Kaufman refused to give up, driven by his passion for birding and his unwavering determination to break the world record.

Alongside the challenges, there were also moments of triumph and exhilaration. Kaufman experienced the joy of discovering new bird species, the thrill of witnessing rare and endangered birds, and the camaraderie of fellow birders who shared his passion. These moments fueled his spirits and kept him going through the most demanding times.

The Final Countdown

As the year drew to a close, Kaufman found himself closing in on the world record. With just a few days remaining, he had reached 699 species and needed only one more to make history. The pressure was immense, but Kaufman remained focused and determined. In a final act of perseverance, he traveled to the remote islands of Alaska, where he finally spotted the elusive Aleutian tern, the 700th species on his list.

Breaking the Record and Beyond

On December 31st, 2015, Kenn Kaufman set a new world record for the most bird species identified and counted in a single year. His astonishing tally of 700 species surpassed the previous record of 696, a feat that had stood for over 20 years. Kaufman's achievement was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to his exceptional skills as a birder, his unwavering dedication, and his ability to overcome countless challenges.

Beyond breaking the world record, Kaufman's Big Year had a profound impact on him and the birding community as a whole. It inspired countless people to pursue their own birding adventures and to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

"The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder" is a captivating and inspiring account of one man's extraordinary journey to set a new world record. Kenn Kaufman's adventures, challenges, and triumphs offer a unique perspective on the world of birding and the indomitable spirit of human endeavor. Whether you are an avid birder or simply an admirer of nature, this book will ignite your imagination, fill you with awe, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the incredible diversity of life on our planet.

Kingbird Highway: The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder

by Kenn Kaufman

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5031 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	338 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE