When we say that Sacred Places are for all, we truly mean it — including those non-human visitors who find respite and renewal in the mini nature oases. These outdoor sanctuaries are more than parks or gardens; they are living ecosystems where birds of many species find peace and comfort alongside their human neighbors. From the chickens at Urban Farms such as The Mulberry Gander at Filbert Street Garden in Baltimore to the swallows and cardinals nesting in trees high above the ground in places like Brenton Arboretum in Iowa, to the Osprey who nest at The Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Annapolis, these feathery friends are all around and often more involved in the ecological community around you than you may expect.
We know from archaeological discoveries that interest in birds dates back to prehistoric times with depictions in cave art and the use of bird bones. Colonial bird collecting was a popular scientific pursuit, which transitioned into bird watching as a hobby and conservation tool in the late 19th century; however, long before that indigenous cultures in North America held rich traditions of observing and honoring birds, often viewing them as spiritually and symbolically significant beings. Today we can appreciate birds for more than just their beauty, the scientific insights they provide, and their contribution to the health of the natural world—recent studies have shown that experiencing their presence through observation or hearing their songs can have positive mental health benefits. Even after brief exposure to birds, humans often experience a reduction in stress and anxiety, with increases in emotional regulation and relaxation.
In addition to providing us with joyful nature soundtracks to enjoy, birds actually serve a number of important purposes that benefit both us humans as well as the plant and animal species that we coexist alongside. Birds serve as pest control, feeding off of insects and parasites that can damage the environment in large numbers. Birds also act as seed dispersers, transferring nuts and seeds that help plant species spread. Species such as hummingbirds work alongside the bees, pollinating plants by transferring pollen as they flutter from plant to plant. While it can be a nuisance, bird waste also serves as important fertilizer that supports and strengthens the soil microbiome with nutrients that help plants grow strong.
When you visit a Sacred Place, or any nature space, you are joining a lively and diverse community of beings that sometime are overlooked. At Nature Sacred, we’re all about improving the health of communities through nearby nature, particularly in places that have historically lacked it, or lacked access to it. As we continue to discover the parts of our built environment that are negatively impacting both our health, and the health of the nature around us, we must consider those species who are living alongside us to create lasting solutions. Birds are not just beautiful and interesting members of our communities, they can provide important insights into the health of environments—with changes in their population, behaviors, and migratory patterns offering clues about habitat conditions and threats of pollution or climate change.
