Birdwatching is an activity focused on the observation and study of birds, the people who dedicate themselves to this practical hobby, inexpensive and easily accessible in Costa Rica are known as tourist ornithologists.
There are three main segments that characterize the tourist ornithologist, according to a study carried out by the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Export and Tourism (PROMPERÚ), one of the countries together with Costa Rica considered the most megadiverse in the world.
The profile of the birdwatcher
Hardcore: your trips are dedicated exclusively to birdwatching. They are specialized birdwatchers, most of them men and half are between 36 and 50 years old. They have a lot of experience in the subject and a collector attitude.
Softcore: It is the one who makes a trip abroad to observe birds and dedicates at least 40% of his time to bird watching. These people are looking to specialize, most are men and are said to be hardcore fans and the age range is 36 and 50 years.
Occasional: those who travel abroad to observe birds and spend less than 40% of their time watching birds. The profile of these tourists is younger and more women are present, it is a segment of amateurs that tries to maintain themselves for a vocation and admiration for the activity (between 25 and 35 years old).
It is estimated that there are 9,17 millions of birdwatchers in the world, between 25 and 70 years old, according PROMPERÚ.
The birdwatcher enjoys the activity, feels that it is part of the care of the environment and also considers it an educational experience. It can also be one of the quietest and most relaxing activities that can be done outdoors.
Nowadays, thanks to advances in technology it is possible to observe birds without having to get too close, for example the correct use of binoculars and the knowledge of cameras because it allows us to enjoy a respectful bird watching.