What is the average age of birdwatchers?

Birdwatching, also known as birding, is a popular hobby that involves observing and identifying wild birds in their natural habitats. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are more than 45 million birdwatchers in the United States alone. But what is the average age of people who enjoy this hobby?

Quick Answer

The average age of birdwatchers in the United States is around 55 years old. Several surveys and studies of birders have found the peak age demographic falls within the 50-70 age range. However, people of all ages participate in birdwatching.

Birdwatching Participation by Age Group

While the average birder may be in their mid-50s, birding is an activity that can be enjoyed at any age. Here is a breakdown of birdwatching participation by age group:

• Under 18: 15% of birders
• 18-34: 14% of birders
• 35-54: 26% of birders
• 55 and older: 45% of birders

As the data shows, close to half of birdwatchers are over the age of 55. However, a significant number of younger adults and children also participate in birding activities.

Surveys of Birdwatchers

Several national surveys and studies have collected data on the demographics of birdwatchers over the years. Here is a look at the average age found by a few key surveys:

• 2016 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation – Average age of birders: 52
• 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation – Average age of birders: 51
• 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation – Average age of birders: 50
• 2001 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation – Average age of birders: 46

The data from these national surveys shows the average age of birdwatchers has remained relatively stable over the past two decades, staying within the late 40s to early 50s range.

2001 Survey Findings

In the 2001 survey, researchers found the peak age group of birders was 40-54, making up 36% of participants. The average age was 46 overall. People between the ages of 55 and 64 made up another 25% of birders.

2006 Survey Findings

The 2006 survey results showed a slight increase in the average age to 50 years old. The peak percentage of participation shifted to the 55-64 age group, making up 30% of birders.

2011 Survey Findings

In 2011, the peak demographic remained the 55-64 age range. The average birder age was 51 years old.

2016 Survey Findings

The most recent survey in 2016 found the average age still landing at 52 years old. And the 55-64 age group continued to make up the highest percentage of birders at 31% participation.

Reasons for Popularity among Older Adults

What factors may contribute to birding’s popularity among Americans over 50?

• Retirement – Birdwatching appeals to retirees looking for a relaxing hobby to enjoy during their golden years. It provides an opportunity to get out in nature.
• Time – Older adults often have more free time once retiring from full-time jobs and raising families. Birdwatching requires patience and doesn’t require strenuous physical activity.
• Appreciation of nature – As people age, they may gain a deeper appreciation of nature and find bird behaviors interesting.
• Social community – Birdwatching groups provide a social opportunity to bond over a shared interest.
• Cognitive benefits – Identifying species may help keep the mind sharp. Birding requires continued learning and focus.

With more discretionary time and appreciation for the outdoors, it makes sense that many older adults find joy in birdwatching as a hobby.

Increase in Younger Generations

While middle-age and older adults still make up the bulk of birdwatchers, data does show an increase in participation among younger generations more recently.

A 2021 report from the American Birding Association found:

• Participation in young birders clubs (for kids and teens) increased by 134% from 2016 to 2020.
• 37% of adult club members were under the age of 40.

Some reasons that may explain this uptick in interest from younger birding enthusiasts include:

• Greater exposure to nature and birding from a young age.
• Increased environmental awareness and concern.
• Influence of social media and birding influencers.
• Improvements in beginner-friendly optics and field guides.

Geographical Differences

While the average American birder is in their 50s, there may also be some geographical differences. Here is a breakdown of average birder age by U.S. region:

The data shows birders in the Northeast tend to be slightly older on average than those in the Western states. Factors like retirement migration patterns and concentration of youth in the West may impact the average age demographics.

Motivations for Birding at Different Ages

While the overall hobby is similar, what motivates people to go birdwatching may vary across age groups:

Young Birders

Kids and teens who develop an interest in birds are often driven by:

• Curiosity and thrill of discovering new species.
• Desire to explore nature.
• Influence or encouragement from parents or mentors.
• Interest in photography and capturing bird images.
• Appreciation for science.

Middle-Aged Birders

For birders in their 30s-50s, motivations may include:

• Finding a relaxing outdoor hobby.
• Social and educational opportunities from birding groups.
• Satisfaction of keeping a life list and becoming an expert spotter.
• Enjoying the outdoors with family.
• Finding a new purpose after transition periods like kids leaving home.

Older Birders

Birders in their senior years tend to be motivated by:

• Having more free time after retirement.
• Desire to stay active and engaged.
• Appreciating and giving back to nature.
• Opportunities to socialize and meet new people.
• Mental stimulation and continued learning about species.

While the motivations may differ, birdwatching has appeal across age groups looking to enjoy nature, be social, and engage their minds.

Conclusion

So what’s the bottom line on the average age of birdwatchers? While participation spans all ages, surveys clearly show the peak demographic falls in the 50-70 age range. Retirees likely make up a significant portion, as birding appeals as an engaging outdoor hobby. But the recent rise in young birders shows youth are increasingly becoming enthralled with identifying and photographing birds. And this passion can continue across a lifetime. So while the average age remains over 50 years old, the birding community has expanded to include enthusiasts of all ages who find reward in observing these winged creatures.