Karl Mechem is a freelance writer and self-proclaimed inept birder in Columbus, Ohio.

Articles by Karl Mechem

48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): New Orleans

By Karl Mechem
April 01, 2016 — Laid-back birding in this urban gem gives "The Big Easy" a new meaning.
48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): Cleveland, Ohio

By Karl Mechem
December 16, 2015 — As the big freeze sets upon this industrial city, so do the raptors, finches, and waterbirds.
48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): Santa Fe, New Mexico

By Karl Mechem
September 11, 2015 — Chasing western birds is yet another reason to visit the Southwest’s most beloved city.
48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): Portland, Oregon

By Karl Mechem
August 04, 2015 — Riverside rambles, cool weather, and culinary greatness make Portland an ideal natural hub.
48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): Oklahoma City

By Karl Mechem
June 29, 2015 — Get a kick out of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers and Painted Buntings along Route 66.
News

The Story Behind That Hilarious #WorstBirdPic Meme

By Karl Mechem
April 26, 2015 — Join the revolution by sharing those blurry, dark, headless bird shots you keep hidden on your hard drive.
48 Hours of Birding

48 Hours of Birding (and Other Things): New York City

By Karl Mechem
April 18, 2015 — There's nothing like spring migration in Manhattan and Queens.
ID Tips

How to Tell a Hairy Woodpecker From a Downy Woodpecker

By Karl Mechem
February 13, 2015 — Size and tail color are two of the biggest clues when deciphering these two backyard regulars.
Courtesy Karl Mechen
Why I'm a Birder

How to Become an (Inept) Birder: Stumble Into It

By Karl Mechem
January 01, 2015 — Karl Mechem, better known as the Inept Birder, recalls his first dalliance with birding, and marvels at how far he’s come (sort of).