Dawn Chorus Vigil

"The radical otherness of birds is integral to their beauty and their value. They are always among us but never of us. Their indifference to us ought to serve as a chastening reminder that we're not the measure of all things." Jonathan Franzen

The dawn chorus is like a never-ending wave of thanksgiving and joy that goes round the earth 24 hours a day, seven days a week and fifty-two weeks of the year. Science tells us there are three reasons why birds sing: to advertise their strengths, to attract a mate and to defend territory. How reductionist. That's only half the story! Birds sing because they can. It's their gift, their song of thanks and joy. Thanks that they have survived the night, the cold, the predators.

This vigil is an opportunity to experience the beauty and mystery of dawn chorus birdsong in late spring on Tooting Common as it first emerges and then climbs to a joyous crescendo. The vigil is followed by a talk and discussion about birdsong, the spirituality and folklore of birds and their place in creation over hot tea / coffee and croissants.

Wear warm clothes, a hat, gloves, boots and bring a portable seat and blanket.

Meet Mike Mullins at 4.15 am on Saturday 11th April at the entrance to Tooting Bec Athletics Track and Gym on Tooting Bec Road SW17 8AR.