Thomas, from walking to ornithology, a passion that makes sense.

Théodore Terschlusen, retired journalist, passionate about ornithology for thirty years.

Ornithology, does that mean anything to you? This branch of zoology devoted to the study of birds by professionals is also a source of leisure accessible to all. For amateurs, it consists of observing birds regardless of their ecozones [1] for pleasure. Théodore Terschlusen is one of these amateurs. A retired journalist, he has been practicing ornithology for thirty years.

A journalist renowned for his professionalism, a great cinema lover known in the North for his brilliant participation in the organisation of the Valenciennes film festival, a fan of literature and music, an arts lover, a news junkie…, Théodore Terschlusen’s string of passions is long to list. His curiosity for nature, his explorations in the forest and especially his regular walks led him to ornithology. With thirty years of practice, he no longer counts the hours: “About every 15 days, I would say that ornithology is on a par with cinema among my passions.”

Small budget, big pleasure

One of the famous books of ornithology, the guide Delachaux.

For his hobby, Théodore only needs a pair of binoculars, good walking shoes and clothes suitable for the undergrowth. With a modest budget of 120 euros, he can get everything he needs. To avoid getting lost when he started, he quickly acquired an observation guide that he still uses today, "the Delachaux guide", which even if it has lost its cover and a few pages, resists coffee stains that do not hinder its readability. Niestlé, another reference work, is also useful, he recommends, as are all animal books with graphic illustrations rather than photos, insists Thomas, to show the advantage of graphics for better understanding birds.

Diversity of birds in flight.

A game suitable for everyone

For Thomas, ornithology allows "to see nature differently, to become more patient and even a little philosophical". It is a game suitable for everyone and more particularly "if you are stressed, if work bores you, if you don't know what to do... you will find pleasure in it. The most important thing is respect for nature and birds."

A passion that can be practiced anywhere

Black-tailed redstart, it belongs to the order of the passeriformes and to the family of the muscicapids. It can be found all over Europe except above the Arctic Circle; everywhere in France, but more common in the south and west in winter.

Thomas has explored many places, near and far from home, in essentially natural and preserved environments. Between early spring and late autumn, the most favorable periods for observation, he has seen such a fascinating diversity of species. "There is something extraordinary about ornithology: you can make astonishing observations just a stone's throw from home. It's the biggest playground in the world, since you can play anywhere."

So when is your first game?

Editorial recommendations

To start ornithology, the documentary "Snow Leopard" and the work of wildlife photographers can be a great source of inspiration. Reaching out to the bird communities, browsing their website and/or becoming a member is also a good idea: The League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) will be a good choice.

Hubert TOMEGA