Accessible walks bring the joys of birding to people with mobility and other limitations

"It's an opportunity for people to get out and see birds without pressure, no matter how long it takes or how many birds we see, said OBara, a retired nurse who has been leading the accessible outings for three years. She said disabled people often cannot keep up on traditional outings, especially when competitive birders are focused on checking off a list of the greatest possible number of species."

"For her accessible walks, OBara ensures that all trails are easily traversable, and bathrooms are open and large enough to accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchairs. She checks on the availability of drinking water, shade and benches. Once a walk gets underway, OBara checks to ensure everyone is keeping up, then modulates the pace as needed."

"While the outings are open to those with wheelchairs and mobility scooters, people who use those devices rarely attend the walks, OBara said, perhaps because they don't think they'll be able to keep up. But we'd encourage them to come, OBara said."

Birding for Every BODY is an accessible birding program offered by the Tucson Bird Alliance that serves people with physical limitations and health conditions like COPD. Led by retired nurse Marcia OBara, these outings prioritize inclusivity by ensuring flat, easily traversable trails, accessible bathrooms, shade, water, and benches. Unlike traditional competitive birding focused on species counts, these walks emphasize enjoyment and community at individual paces. OBara modulates speed based on participants' needs and encourages people using wheelchairs and mobility scooters to attend, though participation from these groups remains limited. This program reflects a growing national movement making birding and nature accessible to everyone regardless of physical ability.

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