Watching the figures soar
A BIRD in the bush is worth more than several entire pet store chains.
Bird-watching, one of America’s most popular outdoor activities, has become one of its biggest revenue generators.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that birders across America spent $32 billion in 2001 pursuing their obsession.
While most watching occurs near the home, roughly 40% of all birders -- about 18 million -- said they travel to pursue their hobby. The $32 billion went for gear, travel, food and big-ticket items such as off-road vehicles and canoes.
According to the report, 83% of all nonresident birders do some or all of their watching on public lands.
-- J. Michael Kennedy
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