Meet Jill Boice
I have been "intentionally" birding since about 2002. I am an enthusiastic watcher of bird behavior, but even after all these years can only identify a small number of sparrows, shorebirds or warblers on sight. If only they would hold still! If you come on a trip with me, hope that one of the many really skillful DFO leaders comes along, or be prepared that we ponder ID's together. But we will have a good trip, no matter where one goes, there will always be something new to learn.
Generally, I like to lead walking trips at a somewhat ambling pace, generally local and maybe all morning or 2/3 day. Once I am out of the car, I don't want to get back in and drive again much.
I am also a raptor monitor at Cherry Creek State Park.
Meet Linda Purcell
I consider myself fortunate that as a Colorado native, I grew up spending much of my time outdoors. I started birding with intent in 2020, and DFO has given me the opportunity to explore even more of the State in a more specific and detailed way. Locally, the extreme familiarity of 'patch' birding has been my best educational tool. The repetition requires me to bird with the goal accumulating knowledge. Beyond any goal, watching birds is a joy.
Less developed parts of the urban area, those fringed with industry and basically ignored for one reason or another. I prefer searching out undiscovered or neglected birdy places, places beyond hot spots. Birding a 'patch' or patches throughout the year, regularly and seasonally, is an education in the changing environment, reflected in how the species change. Studying birds in their habitat is particularly interesting; that includes vegetation and topography and going off the path- what makes one draw and gully a good habitat and another place not? Late summer and fall are my favorite seasons - the fledged and juvenile birds, mixed flocks, the challenge of identifying that little brown bird. Hiking is always welcome.
I am fortunate to travel locally, regionally, and beyond to learn about people and places, and certainly to see birds.