Roughly translated, it means "Everyman's right". This is a uniquely Finnish concept which entitles everybody to the right to move around freely in order to enjoy or appreciate nature, regardless of land ownership. It speaks loudly about the importance of nature and stewardship in Finland's culture, and the broadly held value that the natural environment belongs to all. And, even as a visitor I already feel very comfortable birding here.
The birding community, while being MUCH larger than the one I am accustomed to in Newfoundland, is a very open and friendly one. Having been here just a week, I've already met a number of great people who have went out of their way to invite me on excursions, take me to interesting places known to the locals, and make me feel welcome. More often than not, when my phone rings it is a birder who I haven't even met yet, checking up to see if I'm available for an upcoming trip ...
Unfortunately, the restrictions of my work will interefere with my ability to bird during the next few key weeks, when migration brings in eastern vagrants, and singing is at its peak. In fact, I plan to chase an out-of-range Red-flanked Bluetail (Sinipyrstö) this weekend -- This is a "must-see" species while I am in Finland, and otherwise could be near impossible to get without a trip up north in the next three weeks.
Posted by jaredclarke at May 11, 2005 09:10 AM