Volunteer Spotlight: MaryG Zell

By Marissa Pensirikul

MaryG Zell had been a casual birder for decades. She joined Travis Audubon on her first bird walk in July of 2021. Since that time, she has attended over 50 events and supported Travis Audubon with over 130 volunteer hours by helping out with bird surveys, events and outreach activities and she frequently helps out at local libraries by presenting bird talks to the public. Here are some interesting facts about one of our awesome TAS volunteers:

Life

MaryG Zell appreciates education in all forms and prides herself on continuing to educate others about birds. She holds two degrees in geology and one in library and information sciences. Prior to retiring, MaryG taught training and teaching seminars throughout the country. While she considers herself simply an average person who gets excited about birds, it’s important to note that she is also a strong advocate for libraries across the country, a wife, a mother, bread maker, and greeting card designer.

Like many species, MaryG migrated from Chicago to Texas for warmer weather. Soon she found herself joining Travis Audubon where she teaches various library programs.

The Birds

Her first birding experience occurred while attending a trip to Clinton Lake, Kansas with her college roommate. A scissor-tailed flycatcher was the first bird that made an impression on MaryG and thus influencing her interests in birding. To this day, scissor-tailed flycatchers remain her favorite.

When asked for favorite birding locations in Texas, MaryG happily answered that she regularly visits Estero Llano Grande State Park and South Padre Island Birding Center. For local haunts, she claims Mills Pond is a fantastic place to bird in the city. Mills Pond, located in Wells Branch, is categorized as a regional detention pond for stormwater runoff but is a great recreational spot for fishing and birding.

Involvement with Travis Audubon

MaryG teaches Travis Audubon programs, such as: backyard birds, owls, birds of Austin, and migration talks at multiple libraries. Her birding knowledge increased because of what Travis Audubon has to offer: classes and exposure. “I won the award for asking the most questions in Jeff Patterson’s shorebirds class,” she proudly announced. She highlights the value of experiencing birding in real time. Bird walks are essential for asking questions, especially if one is a beginner birder.

What have you learned from volunteering?

MaryG realized she is more enthused to talk about birds. To talk about birds with anyone and everyone which includes professional educators. She reminded herself that being enthused allows room for learning, and in turn caring about something.