About us
NextGen Birders is a program of the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance (NVBA) focused on fostering curiosity, excitement, and connection around birds, thereby helping to create the next generation of birders and conservation champions. New birders of any age 18+ are welcome to join this group.
Our events and programming are designed with beginner birders in mind, but birders of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels are always welcome.
### What Is Birding?
Birding (or birdwatching) is the act of observing and appreciating birds. If you’ve ever seen a bird outside your window or on a walk and thought, “What is that?”—congratulations, you’re a birder!
While “birdwatching” and “birding” are often used interchangeably, we use birding to emphasize that nature, and birds, are open and accessible to all. Birding can be as simple or as involved as you choose—and it’s for everyone and every body. All are welcome.
Why Birding?
In an increasingly busy, technology-driven world, birding offers a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature. Research highlighted by Time shows that engaging with birds can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of calm and connection—sparking curiosity, joy, and a sense of wonder while building meaningful community.Plus, all the cool kids are birding now (fun article by The Atlantic)!
### What Kinds of Events Does NextGen Host?
NextGen Birders hosts casual, social, bird-focused events designed to inspire a deeper interest in our avian friends while building meaningful human connections and fostering community engagement.
Example events include:
- Monthly bird walks at parks across Northern Virginia (socializing encouraged!)
- Quarterly Wingspan Game Nights & Bird-themed trivia events
- Field trips and day trips to bird-focused destinations, such as the Bird House at Smithsonian’s National Zoo.
- Conservation and volunteer activities, including invasive plant removals
We also partner with other NVBA programs to host broader community events. We encourage you to explore NVBA’s full calendar of bird outings, educational events, conservation opportunities and more!
### What Do I Need to Attend?
Nothing but curiosity! Binoculars are helpful but not required to enjoy birding. When possible, loaner binoculars will be available at our bird walks for participants to use. We also recommend planning your clothing and shoes for the type of event you signed up for (bird sit vs birding hikes).
Upcoming events
2
Past events
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