The Beginning

Written By Virginia Rose
Hi! My name is Virginia Rose. I am a paraplegic and have used a manual wheelchair for 45 years. I have been an avid birdwatcher for about 15 years now. I joined Travis Audubon, (TAS), and co-led the beginning bird walks once a month for 7 years. I am now on the board of directors  for TAS.
I have identified many wheelchair accessible parks in central Austin over the years and am interested in helping mobility-challenged folks get outside and experience nature. So many people with disabilities do not realize how much they can do outside!
I started Birdability because I want to share the joy of birding with others. The hobby has enriched my life in so many ways. I have taken countless birding classes and learned so much. I have met wonderful people along the way who have welcomed me into the organization with open arms. I have gone on 100+ field trips to see beautiful parks and beautiful birds. Along the way I have become more confident in being outside on my own or with others. It has been a joy!
I am currently working with a number of Austin groups to help introduce birding to the mobility challenged. If you or someone you know is interested in getting outside, expanding his or her interests, and meeting like-minded people, please contact me at vrose6784@gmail.com
Virginia Rose

Virginia fell off a horse at the age of 14 which resulted in a spinal cord injury. A wheelchair user ever since, she began birding 17 years ago and discovered her best self in nature. She has led bird outings for Travis Audubon for seven years, and leads the accessible outings for the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival each year.

As a retired high school English teacher, she is passionate about bringing the same joy of birding and nature to others who have mobility or other accessibility challenges. Her infectious positive attitude is the force behind Birdability.

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First Official Birdability Walk
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The Scope