Birdability Captain Spotlight: Diane Allison- Pioneering Accessible Birding with PCAS

Birdability Captain Diane Allison led a group bird outing at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia with participants from the Pennsylvania Center for Adaptive Sports. Image description: There are six people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices in the front row, including two participants with service dogs. There are three people standing behind them, including Diane to the far right. There is a paved path in front of the group and trees and grass behind them.

In the heart of Pennsylvania, Diane Allison stands as a beacon for accessible birding, helping make the joy of birding available to everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Diane’s journey into birding and her subsequent dedication to adaptive birding shows passion, resilience, and community spirit.

Diane's fascination with nature began early, inspired by her father's interest in birds. Although initially drawn to moths and butterflies, Diane's move to her current home 48 years ago rekindled her interest in birds. A Northern Harrier sighting and a successful bluebird box installation sparked a deeper engagement with birdwatching. By 1981, Diane participated in her first Christmas Bird Count, a transformative experience that solidified her commitment to the avian world and brought her a sustained mentorship.

However, it was a personal connection that steered Diane toward accessible birding. In 2003, her close friend, a fellow nature enthusiast, was diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). As her friend's mobility declined, Diane adapted their birdwatching adventures, transitioning to car birding. This method allowed them to cover significant ground while staying in the vehicle, and proved effective and enjoyable, showcasing the potential of easily adaptive birding techniques.

Diane's involvement with Birdability began in 2019 after the passing of her friend. Inspired by a mention of Birdability in Audubon magazine, Diane saw an opportunity to honor her friend's memory by promoting accessible birding. She quickly became one of the first Birdability Captains and met Virginia Rose, Birdability’s founder, during a visit to Hawk Mountain.

Diane connected with the Pennsylvania Center for Adaptive Sports (PCAS), merging her passion for birding with a desire to provide hands-on support for people with disabilities. Since 2021, Diane has been leading adaptive birding outings with PCAS, conducting six outings each spring and fall. These outings often feature car birding, a method Diane advocates for its practicality and inclusivity. By using accessible vans and walkie-talkies, Diane ensures that all participants can share in the birding experience, regardless of their physical limitations.

One of Diane's innovative approaches involves the use of walkie-talkies during group outings. These devices allow participants to communicate and share sightings without leaving their vehicles, maintaining the element of surprise crucial for birding. This method has enhanced the experience for many, making birding outings more interactive and enjoyable.

Diane’s efforts extend beyond traditional field outings. Katie Samson, a co-organizer of the PCAS outings and Diane recently organized a unique birding event at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. Participants explored diorama exhibits to identify birds in their natural habitats and later toured the Academy's extensive collection of bird study skins. This indoor birding experience provided a valuable alternative for those unable to participate in outdoor activities during the winter months.

Diane's work has had a profound impact on her community, fostering a love for birding and nature among people with disabilities. Her dedication has inspired others, including park rangers who attended her presentation and are now working to make their parks more accessible.

Through her leadership and innovative approaches, Diane Allison exemplifies the spirit of Birdability, ensuring that the joys of birdwatching are accessible to everyone. Her story is a testament to the power of adaptive techniques and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor activities, paving the way for a more inclusive future in birding. We only wish that her friend Allison were still alive to come along on the outings and see the work Diane is doing!!