Subtitle: Studying the Intersection of the Avian, Emotional, and Environmental.
As the Birds Fly explores the culture of bird watching in Los Angeles and its intersection with climate change and sustainability. This thesis takes the form of a short documentary, which includes interviews with birders, as well as scientists and researchers who speak more directly to the issues facing birds, as well as trends in our environment.
A subculture that is often portrayed one-dimensionally, As the Birds Fly captures the subtleties and intricacies of birding culture. Bird watching is one of the most widespread pastimes in America, as over 45 million people reported watching birds in 2016. The National Audubon Society, which was founded to protect birds, has over 500 chapters and over 500,000 members. Bird watchers have their own social norms and language, and while what they are doing is recreational, through their observations they are also seeing the real effects of climate change, often before others do. Birders have noticed changes in bird populations, and many are considering the implications of climate change for their hobby and for the animals they admire
