Meet Linda Purcell
I consider myself fortunate that as a Colorado native, I grew up spending much of my time outdoors. I started birding with intent in 2020, and DFO has given me the opportunity to explore even more of the State in a more specific and detailed way. Locally, the extreme familiarity of 'patch' birding has been my best educational tool. The repetition requires me to bird with the goal accumulating knowledge. Beyond any goal, watching birds is a joy.
Less developed parts of the urban area, those fringed with industry and basically ignored for one reason or another. I prefer searching out undiscovered or neglected birdy places, places beyond hot spots. Birding a 'patch' or patches throughout the year, regularly and seasonally, is an education in the changing environment, reflected in how the species change. Studying birds in their habitat is particularly interesting; that includes vegetation and topography and going off the path- what makes one draw and gully a good habitat and another place not? Late summer and fall are my favorite seasons - the fledged and juvenile birds, mixed flocks, the challenge of identifying that little brown bird. Hiking is always welcome.
I am fortunate to travel locally, regionally, and beyond to learn about people and places, and certainly to see birds.
Meet David Suddjian
I've been birding for over 35 years, beginning in California, and in Colorado since 2013. I coordinated DFO's Big Year 2018, leading 81 field trips for DFO that year. I love eBirding, and counting birds.
I lead all kinds of trips from low key local outings near my Ken Caryl JeffCo home to intense far ranging trips reaching out to all corners of the state. Overnight trips go to classic Colorado birding locations, and sometimes we even camp! I like to explore areas, county birding, back roads, cemeteries and sewage lagoons, developing birding by ear skills, and helping birders to appreciate the patterns of migration, seasonal occurrence and habitat associations. I love the camaraderie of DFO field trips, the new friendships that grow, and the opportunities for birders to have FUN in the field!