In Greenpoint, a Wacky New Birding Group Is Ruffling Some Feathers

“Young people in New York City, post-pandemic, facing climate change, are craving genuine connection, both connection to nature and connection to community,” Gould said. “Birding offers both.”

“It’s refreshing to have someone that is challenging what birding is, and isn't super restrictive,” Lezcano said. "It isn't just about collecting Pokémon. It's about being present and observing your environment and watching how things play out, rather than just ticking off how many birds you've seen.”

'The opposite of doomscrolling'

“Birding is punk,” Lombardo said, scanning the trees for movement before the morning meeting. “It requires patience and awareness and it’s very real. Those [values] are very much counterculture. Being outside and in the real world is so sick and beautiful to me.”