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Much like species within the sparrow family, hipsters can be tricky to identify. To help you spot these irony-loving millennial-aged birders, we’ve compiled a guide. Be on the lookout for:» Pastel dyed locks» Thick-rimmed glasses» Beanie» Mismatched patterns» Skinny jeans» Chaco sandals
The hipster has long been considered a rare sighting at wildlife refuges and bird sanctuaries. But now, members of this knit cap-wearing counterculture seem to be expanding their range.
According to a recent article titled "Rise of the Hipster Bird Watcher" which appeared in British newspaper The Telegraph, "a nationwide survey of Britain's hobbies and interests has discovered that 32 percent of men aged between 16 to 25 have been birding." This finding followed lifestyle magazine Conde Nast Traveler's claim that bird-watching would become "2017's unlikeliest craze."
Hipster-birders have now migrated to the Tennessee Valley. To prove it, we snagged an interview with one of these elusive new-age bird-watchers.
Name: Rebekah Champion
Age: 22
Favorite place to bird-watch? Whigg Meadow. There's always a Merlin flying around, and during migration, one can see anything. I've been consistently volunteering with the Whigg Meadow banding station for almost 10 years. The most incredible bird we had was probably a redstart. It's such a striking bird!
Favorite place to bird-watch before it became mainstream? Hiwassee Refuge. But I'm glad to see more people from the community getting involved, especially young kids.
Favorite bird? The hooded warbler. Their song can be heard in the woods all day but they are hard to spot. So when you finally see that bright yellow flash, it's incredibly satisfying.
Most overrated bird? The sandhill crane. They are loud and destructive, but for some reason all of East Tennessee is obsessed with them. Darn those charismatic mega-fauna! At least they taste good.
Most ironic bird? Bald eagle. Scavengers - but the symbol of our nation. I believe the symbol should have been the wild turkey.