Unveiling the Artistry of Birding: Christian Cooper Takes the Lead in New NatGeo Show

Birding is an outdoor activity that allows individuals to come closer to the avian creatures of the animal kingdom. Christian Cooper, a lifelong birder, presents an exciting new series called Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper. The show made its debut on June 17 and can now be enjoyed on Disney+ and National Geographic, with new episodes premiering every Saturday. True to the nature of National Geographic, Extraordinary Birder takes viewers on an exhilarating journey around the world.

Hosted by Cooper, Extraordinary Birder showcases a diverse range of birds and their habitats in each episode. Cooper also invites other birding experts to share their knowledge about various bird species. From soaring above bridges to venturing into the depths of the wilderness, Extraordinary Birder immerses viewers in a thrilling birding adventure.

Screen Rant spoke to Christian Cooper on the making of Extraordinary Birder and some of the experiences of birding in different locations captured on the show.

Behind-The-Scenes of Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper

Screen Rant: How did the concept of Extraordinary Birder come to be on National Geographic?

Christian Cooper: I received a call from Janet Vissering, an executive at NatGeo, who had always wanted to create a birding show. She believed that the timing was perfect due to the surge in birding during the pandemic - an unexpected positive outcome of the situation. Janet had seen me in Central Park: The Birders Effect, a documentary where I was featured alongside others, and she asked me if I would be interested in doing a birding show. From there, we went through the necessary steps, which took some time due to factors like NatGeo being acquired by Disney and the required processes. Eventually, we were able to launch Extraordinary Birder, which is incredibly exciting.

Can you provide a concise explanation of birding for those who are new to the concept?

Christian Cooper: Certainly, birding involves the act of observing and studying the birds in your surroundings, either through visual or auditory means. On the show, I had the opportunity to meet a blind birder who relies solely on his hearing to engage with the birds. They take advantage of this by utilizing audio recorders in the forest, capturing the sounds of birds 24/7. Afterwards, they are able to review and analyze these recordings in detail.

Birding involves observing the avian species in your surroundings. In each episode of the show, we venture to a different location, exploring the fascinating birds found there as well as the various issues that arise at the intersection of birds and people. These issues can range from positive to negative.

Moreover, we highlight individuals who are engaged in remarkable efforts to protect birds and their habitats. These extraordinary birders, whether amateurs or scientists, are doing incredible things, such as the individuals I encountered in Hawaii who are working tirelessly to save their native bird species from extinction. Witnessing their dedication and the lengths they go to is truly awe-inspiring. That's what the title "Extraordinary Birder" refers to – these exceptional individuals who are making a difference.

How much work did you have to put in during the COVID-19 pandemic to get Extraordinary Birder up and running?

Christian Cooper: It's a great question. We began filming in January 2022, towards the end of the pandemic. Vaccines were available, but testing and protocols were still in place. That was the pandemic situation during our filming.

What were some of your favorite experiences or moments in the making of Extraordinary Birder?

In my hometown of New York City, there is one experience that I find myself constantly revisiting. It involves venturing up to the towers of the George Washington Bridge. During rush hour, a lane of traffic is actually closed off on the bridge, allowing us to ascend. As we ascend in a freight elevator, we emerge into a magnificent superstructure comprised of interconnected girders. From this vantage point, we are presented with a spectacular view of the Hudson River, which lies several hundred feet below. It is worth noting that we are standing on a small metal grate.

As we stand there, a sensation of vertigo washes over us due to the tremendous drop below. Simultaneously, we are greeted by the piercing calls of a Peregrine Falcon. Our purpose for being up there is to monitor the nest of this falcon. She is extremely displeased with our intrusion into her domain, and she swiftly darts through the girders, emitting intense screeches as she swoops dangerously close to us. Meanwhile, we remain suspended above the city, mesmerized by the urban landscape and the sight of the Hudson River below. The falcon's cries resonate intensely through the superstructure, amplifying her fury towards us. All in all, this was an extraordinary and awe-inspiring experience.

Christian Cooper: It's incredibly difficult to answer that question. Throughout my career in birding, I have been fortunate enough to visit numerous extraordinary locations. Even when I've traveled for purposes other than birding, I always find myself engaging in birding activities wherever I go. My binoculars are a constant companion. For instance, I had the opportunity to be at the base of Mt. Everest and witness a variety of fascinating bird species. Each experience is unique and memorable. One particularly remarkable instance was during the Ecuadorian pandemic when I spontaneously left everything behind and took a flight because a friend informed me about an active Harpy Eagle nest. These majestic birds are undeniably one of the largest species of eagles in the world.

I fulfilled my dream of witnessing a Harpy Eagle in its natural habitat by taking a flight to Ecuador. With determination, I persevered through ankle-deep swamps and even ruined my boots – a small sacrifice that meant nothing to me. Finally, there she was, perched by her nest. Contrary to what skeptics may claim, a Harpy Eagle is undoubtedly a magnificent bird, not a human disguised as one. Witnessing the breathtaking spectacle as her enormous wings gracefully unfolded left me in awe. Embarking on a birding journey opens doors to countless extraordinary encounters, many of which bring us up close to these magnificent creatures. They are not all grand and sweeping like the view from the George Washington Bridge.

One of the most incredible encounters I have ever had happened in Southern California. It was February, and I was working outdoors when a peculiar sensation tingled on my leg. Puzzled, I glanced down only to find a female Hummingbird delicately flying up and down my leg, gently brushing her bill against my skin. Bewildered and slightly unnerved, I couldn't fathom the reason behind this unexpected behavior. I surmised that perhaps it was the start of the nesting season, and my presence had sparked her curiosity about my leg hairs as a potential nesting site. Birding experiences possess an endless capacity to astound us, whether it involves standing atop the George Washington Bridge or simply sitting on our patio.

What is the main message you want viewers to take from Extraordinary Birder, whether they're experienced birders or new to birdwatching?

Christian Cooper: Encouraging viewers to step outdoors, observe, and appreciate the birds that surround us at all times, regardless of location. Additionally, to recognize the importance of safeguarding their habitats and populations, as protecting birds means safeguarding our own future. Birds serve as an indicator of the state of our planet, akin to the canaries in coal mines. By saving them, we ultimately save ourselves. Lastly, embracing the joy and excitement that birdwatching brings.

About Extraordinary Birder

Christian Cooper is the Host and Consulting Producer for the upcoming Nat Geo WILD series Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper. With a lifelong passion for birds, he held the position of president of the Harvard Ornithological Club during his time in college. Currently, as a vice president of New York City Audubon, he advocates for equal access to green spaces for everyone, particularly focusing on reaching out to young people in underserved communities.

In addition to his birding expertise, Christian is a dedicated activist for racial justice and LGBTQ equality. He skillfully merged these passions in the BLM graphic short story "It's a Bird" published by DC Comics. Seeking to create connections between storytelling, progressivism, and environmentalism, Christian continues to champion important causes. His memoir, Better Living Through Birding, will be published by Random House in the near future.

New episodes of Extraordinary Birder drop on Disney+ and National Geographic on Saturdays at 10/9c.