Last week I informally polled MOU and MNBird participants why many do not post, or post very infrequently - had 38 responses (some with multiple reasons, a few with none/simply wanted to discuss the topic generally). Following is a summary of the reasons shared:
* Past negative experience - 16 * Insecurity about ID skills, reluctance to make mistake - 7 * Busyness - 6 * MOU is not for common birds - 3 * Quality of posts generally down - 2 * Lack of observations - 1; lack of guidance - 1 There were two sides to the "past negative experience" answers. Many shared that they had posted in the past, received questions - criticism - attacks - flaming about an observation, and decided to only monitor the list observations (one wonders how many also just left?). Others shared that they wanted to help people with questionable observations, but felt that their input would only hurt feelings, so they hold back. Perhaps we should consider developing a few guidelines to help bring these two sides together, perhaps a format or suggested approach for experienced members to use when questioning a sighting (ask/don't criticize, share backchannel rather than on the list, be aware that their email could be sent to the moderator for review or similar) and a notice telling a new member that sightings are occasionally questioned for their and the overall association's good? (Just my opinion.) Would love to see us address newer/inexperienced birder insecurity as well. There was also a perception among some members of both lists that MNBird was friendlier, and MOU less so (heard the word "elitist" a few times, which is both sad and a bit strong) - perhaps the differing natures of the two organizations impacts this? Personally I appreciate, am committed to and have profited from being part of both "e-communities", and plan to continue reading and sharing openly. Good birding to all! Al Schirmacher Princeton, MN Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties
