I just met this guy while riding my bike. Super nice. Walking with his long lens and spotting scope. I stopped to confess my dual love of birding and lack of training. I had NO IDEA who this guy was or what he level of skill he has but take one look at this film and be prepared to be blown away. Or better yet, have a listen to what he can do. I’ve said this before, and will say it again, birders are the most educated, focused, driven set of humans I’ve met, and Dan proves my point once again. I also think this is a beautiful film. Not fancy cuts or transitions, smart use of the drone and great locations and weather. Just let him be him and get out of the way.
Meeting Dan was the highlight of this ride, and not getting hit by the work trucks who have cart blanche to drive as fast as humanly possible without fear of being ticketed. Maine plays the same tricks the rest of the states do in this regard, but there was also another not-so-subtle reminder of the reality of birds in the modern world. Near a set of trash cans along Route 9 was this dead little beauty. Probably caught pillaging trash. It doesn’t take much. A half second delay, a plumber with a deadline and nature takes another beating. And on this note, read this. A third of North American birds have vanished. I’m no math guy but that seems like a lot.
Okay, an update here. Looks like Dan has agreed to an interview, so we can hear a bit more from the man himself.
Comments 13
Serendipity indeed. Nice film about an extraordinary and talented guy, quite amazing.
Author
Can’t wait to interview him.
The Dans collide! Your meeting was fate at its finest – albeit, how could it not have happened!?! The film is terrific, perfectly imparting this human’s awareness, intelligence and kindness—he embodies humility, respect, grace and nature itself. Plus, he sings like a bird! So looking forward to the interview!
Author
I still can’t get my head around his vocal ability. I find it mindblowing. Man, miss you Fodor, and although I love Maine my mind is drifting to the Sangres. Hope you are well. Hi to J.
Nice People have nice faces.
Author
Good to know!
In my second and my third life(which I certainly won’t get) I want to roam like him. Just listening and observing. Not producing. Not counting. Not trying to beat a deadline or reach a goal. He’s already a hero for me. Magic happens but we’re mostly to occupied to be aware of it.
Author
Yes, time to be free can be transcendent time.
Thank you for sharing, Dan. I was sitting quietly in my backyard the other day, listening to a Northern Mockingbird perched on the power line above. I was able to recognize a car alarm, a frog, a cricket, a cell phone ringtone, an owl hooting and a few more songs that I don’t remember. What I do remember is how calm and peaceful it felt to be able to listen to the nature around me right smack dab in the suburbs of L.A. Listening to Dan G. share a little about who he is and what he is about, I was moved by the peaceful nature and calm aura he exhibits. It made me wonder–Did he bring those traits to nature or did nature bring those traits to him? Or maybe it is both? One thing is for sure…I’d like to have more of that peace and calm in my life.
Author
GREAT question, and I’m going to use this for the interview. I’ll credit you….
Hey Dan.
That’s really incredible. I’m so glad you met this guy. I met him almost 20 years ago. At that time I was doing the Kamana Naturalist Training program at Wilderness Awareness School. And this guy was one of my mentors. I’m really looking forward to the interview with him. Please say hi to him.
I think I’ve already recommended John Young’s book to you in another comment: What the Robin knows. If you not only want to see birds but also want to understand them, you should definitely read this book. It will surely change the way you look at the birds and the world. Just ask Dan about Jon Young and Birdlanguage..
All the best from Germany
Axel
Author
There are SO many great bird books. We are fortunate. And yes, I’m hoping to interview Dan over the coming weeks. Any questions you have for him, send them in.
Uau! Looking forward to this one…