Curiosity in the wild

The animals weren't the only ones watching visitors at Alameda Park Zoo. 

Members of the Mesilla Valley Audubon Society's Nature Journal Club spent Oct. 10 observing animals from around the world, including common marmosets, small monkeys that appeared just as interested in the visitors. The outing offered a glimpse into how the organization encourages southern New Mexico residents to connect with wildlife through observation, education and conservation. 

Nature journaling encourages participants to record what they see through writing, drawing and numbers, whether they're studying an unfamiliar animal or examining a plant in their own backyard. The club meets monthly, giving people opportunities to explore different environments while developing their observation skills. 

Cheryl Fallstead, president of the Mesilla Valley Audubon Society, became interested in the practice during the COVID-19 pandemic after discovering videos by naturalist and educator John Muir Laws. When she later became president of the local Audubon chapter, she helped establish the Nature Journal Club to introduce residents to another way of exploring their surroundings. 

"It's not focused just on birds," Fallstead said. "It's on nature as a whole." 

No artistic experience is required. Participants can sketch, take notes, or use simple prompts such as "I notice," "I wonder" and "it reminds me of" to guide their observations. Organizers provide introductory materials and assistance for beginners, and outings often conclude with members sharing their discoveries. 

The club has welcomed children, teenagers, and some adults in their 80s. Along with monthly outings, its activities have included educational sessions at the Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science and opportunities for young people to learn about nature journaling. 

The Society's broader work includes regular bird walks, conservation projects, park cleanups, educational classes, and school outreach activities. It also supports graduate students at New Mexico State University through a scholarship and has worked on improvements to a bird blind at Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park. 

Fallstead said those efforts are especially important in a region where the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding mountains provide habitat for species including Gambel's quail, greater roadrunners and curve-billed thrashers. 

The organization encourages residents to take practical steps to protect wildlife, from keeping cats indoors to turning off outdoor lights during migration seasons. Educating people about the dangers of rodenticides can also help protect owls and other birds that feed on rodents. 

For newcomers, participation can begin with a guided bird walk or a volunteer project. Fallstead said people don't need extensive knowledge to contribute, and experienced members can help them identify birds and learn about local wildlife. 

Through its activities, MVAS hopes to encourage residents to become more involved in protecting southern New Mexico's natural environment. Fallstead said even a single encounter with an unfamiliar bird can leave a lasting impression. 

"If we can bring someone on a bird walk and help them discover their 'spark bird,' the one that sparks a love of birds and nature, we've helped make a connection for life," she said. 

More information about the Mesilla Valley Audubon Society is available at www.mvasaudubon.org.