Birdwatching Captivates Gen Z, Replacing Smartphones with Binoculars

Birdwatching, once considered a pastime for retirees, is experiencing a significant surge in popularity among younger generations, including Gen Z and millennials. These demographics are increasingly turning to the quiet observation of birds as a way to disconnect from the constant stimulation of screens and social media.

A study by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) in the UK revealed that approximately 750,000 individuals aged 16-29 regularly engage in birdwatching. This represents a remarkable increase of over 1,000% since 2018, highlighting a growing trend among young adults.

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People have been developing alongside nature for thousands of years, so the need for contact with it is deeply rooted in us.

Experts suggest that birdwatching's appeal lies in its requirement for silence and focus, offering a stark contrast to the fast-paced nature of social media scrolling. Ironically, platforms like Instagram and TikTok are also instrumental in spreading awareness and interest in the hobby among young people. Beyond its trendiness, birdwatching is recognized for its mental health benefits, with studies indicating it can improve mood and foster a deeper connection with nature, a need deeply ingrained in human psychology, according to RSPB's Amir Khan.

This phenomenon is not limited to Europe. South Korea has also seen a rise in birdwatching enthusiasm since 2021, particularly after public figures like author Jeong Serang and actress Kim Taeri shared their experiences. Kim Taeri described the practice as requiring "holding your breath" and carefully approaching the source of a bird's song, emphasizing the meditative and mindful aspects of the hobby.

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I've been watching birds regularly for a long time. I go out with binoculars and listen carefully to their singing. When I hear a song, I stop and look. The most important thing is to hold your breath. Then I slowly approach the sound.