Searching for Birds
This interactive story explores the relationship between humans and birds through data, visuals, and illustrations. It highlights how Google search trends can reveal which birds capture our attention and curiosity, with a focus on the Snowy Owl's appearance in Central Park, New York, in January 2021. The story categorizes birds into general types and species, showing that while there are over 700 North American and Hawaiian bird species, only a few have significant search interest. It also discusses the role of 'spark birds' in igniting interest in bird identification and the use of digital tools in modern birdwatching. The analysis reveals a correlation between bird sightings and search interest, though there is a disconnect with actual population sizes. The story concludes by emphasizing the importance of paying attention to birds and how they can bring joy and curiosity into our lives.