Birdwatching and brain health

Kotare | Kingfisher (c) H Darling

“A few moments of joy and curiosity” was how one of our lovely guests described a piwakawaka (fantail) encounter in the forest - which is incredibly apt.  It turns out that researchers have proven what we know – bird watching is good for the mood and good for the brain.  In fact, bird watching even appears to provide some protection against cognitive decline.   A recent Canadian study found that birdwatching was associated with improved cognitive functioning (by rewiring and restructuring the brain – this is a good thing).   

South Island Robin, Ulva Island © H Darling

The benefits of birdwatching are also amplified according to the number of species seen (or heard).  The World Economic Forum estimate that the feel-good factor increases proportionally the number of birds.  The authors of that study (around 26,000 Europeans) reported:"We also examined the socio-economic data of the people that were surveyed, and, much to our surprise, we found that avian diversity is as important for their life satisfaction as is their income." Being around birds enriches you.  That study found that exposure to 14 species of birds added the equivalent of an extra 124 Euros per month to the household income (in terms of life satisfaction).

So … birding rewires our brains, improves our mood and increases life satisfaction.  It also encourages conservation efforts and community involvement.  Its time to come to the island!