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Teen Birders Vie for World Series Title
12 May
Summary
- Three teenagers competed in the 43rd annual World Series of Birding.
- The team, The Pete Dunnelins, aimed to count 200 bird species in 24 hours.
- They narrowly missed winning, scoring 206 species to the Flying Penguins' 209.
The 43rd annual World Series of Birding saw three teenage friends, The Pete Dunnelins, compete to count the most bird species in New Jersey within 24 hours. Otys Train, Jack Trojan, and Zade Pacetti meticulously planned their strategy, employing spreadsheets to manage their time down to the minute.
Their intense preparation, including identifying birds by sound in the dark and strategically spotting warblers from a moving car, helped them tally an impressive 206 species. This exceeded their goal of 200 species, a testament to their dedication and mentorship from their fathers.
Despite their strong performance, The Pete Dunnelins were narrowly outmatched by a rival team, the Flying Penguins, who recorded 209 species. The teens acknowledged that luck and natural conditions, such as rainy weather, played a role in the outcome.
This competition underscores the commitment of young people to conservation and nature. The experience not only honed their birding skills but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the environment, challenging the stereotype of youthful apathy.
