I belong to the Toronto Ornithological Club. Being a member of a birding club has many benefits. I have listed some below.

1. Friendship and camaraderie: You meet so many nice and interesting people who share your passion for birds. You might find a birding buddy.
2. Finding a mentor: When I first joined my club, an older, experienced birder encouraged me and gave me confidence in my birding skills. He was my sponsor, when I finally joined the club.
3. Learn to be a better birder: As mentioned above, club members will take the time to show you how to be a better birder. They will explain about ethical birding. They will show you ways to welcome and encourage others to become birders.
4. Help with your equipment: Other birders will help you get the most out of your birding optics. They will let you check out their binoculars or scopes, before you buy or upgrade.
5. Club meetings: You learn more about what your club does. Also, there is usually an interesting guest speaker. And, everyone is interested in talking about birds!
6. Bird walks: Get to see different birding spots in your city or area. Leaders will share the best times and specific places for finding the birds you most want to see.
7. Citizen Science Programs: Your club offers you an opportunity to help birds in special projects. There are Christmas bird counts, raptor watches, breeding bird surveys, to name a few.
8. Organizational/Leadership Skills: Get involved with running your club. Join the executive committee. Lead bird walks. Write for the club newsletter or become its editor.

I hope this encourages people to find their local clubs and join one this fall.