Small Business Spotlight: Mount Holly man offers birding tours in county

Cumberland County has no shortage of residents with unique talents and independent spirits.

From artists to mechanics, office workers to outdoor professionals, these entrepreneurs showcase the best of what businesses in the county have to offer.

Every week, The Sentinel’s Small Business Spotlight will feature these people and share their stories.

Discover your local connection through this series that focuses on small business owners in your own backyard and highlights the services they provide for their community.

Andrew Dapkins

Business Name: The “Bird Guy” Tours

Years in Business: 1 year

Location: Mount Holly Springs

A: My passion for birding has been a lifelong journey, sparked at the age of 10. As an adult, my career has provided me with the privilege of traveling the world and volunteering with various nature organizations. This allowed me to immerse myself in the world of birds, learning from diverse perspectives and cultures. Upon settling in Cumberland County, I noticed a gap in the local birdwatching field – a lack of services catering to those unfamiliar with this fascinating hobby. Inspired to share my knowledge and love for birds, I founded “The Bird Guy Tours.” It’s not just a business for me; it’s a chance to introduce the wonders of birdwatching to those who may not have discovered its magic yet.”

Q: How did you get your start?

A: I have always been a motivated initiative-taker, and my lifelong dream was to establish a business related to birds. To kickstart my entrepreneurial journey, I began researching similar businesses worldwide to gain insights into the industry and identify potential opportunities. During my research, I stumbled upon an advertisement highlighting the Small Business Development Center at Shippensburg University, which specifically offered services to veterans aspiring to start their own businesses.

Recognizing the potential support they could provide, I promptly reached out to them via email. The response was overwhelming, as they not only addressed my general inquiries but also guided me through the intricate process of establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Their assistance proved invaluable, covering a spectrum of aspects crucial to laying the foundation of my small business.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: The “Bird Guy” Tours specializes in birdwatching experiences, offering a range of services to cater to various interests and audiences. Our primary offerings include:

1. Free monthly walks: We organize and conduct complimentary monthly birdwatching walks in collaboration with South Middleton Township Parks and Recreation and Carlisle Borough Parks and Recreation. These walks are open to the public and provide an opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore local bird species.

2. Customized walks for groups: We offer individual and group birdwatching walks tailored to the specific needs of schools, scout groups and other organizations. These walks are designed to be educational and engaging, allowing participants to learn more about the diverse bird species in the local area. 3. Educational seminars: Our services extend to providing seminars aimed at educating organizations and their members about the fundamentals of birdwatching. Whether it is helping beginners get started with birdwatching or enhancing the skills of experienced birders, our seminars cover a range of topics to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of birds.

By offering a mix of free community walks, customized group experiences and informative seminars, “The Bird Guy Tours” aims to foster a greater connection between people and the fascinating world of birds. Our mission is to make birdwatching accessible, enjoyable and educational for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: The biggest challenge our business is currently facing revolves around striking a balance between maintaining our commitment to providing free services and successfully introducing a fee-based service tailored for individuals traveling to Cumberland County from other counties, states and worldwide. Effectively addressing this challenge requires a strategic approach that ensures the continued availability of our existing free services while simultaneously creating and promoting a compelling value proposition for the new fee-based offering. This involves careful consideration of pricing structures, market research to understand the needs of our target audience and implementing a seamless transition that minimizes disruption for our current users while attracting new customers. As a one-person business, balancing these two service models will be crucial for the sustained growth and success of our business.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: My favorite aspect of Cumberland County is undoubtedly the abundant outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty that it offers. As a lifelong outdoors enthusiast, my family and I made the deliberate choice to settle here, and we have not been disappointed.

Cumberland County provides a diverse range of outdoor activities that cater to all preferences. From hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints to serene lakes ideal for fishing and boating, the options are endless. One gem is the Yellow Breeches River System where I have had unforgettable experiences surrounded by nature’s wonders.

What truly sets Cumberland County apart is the year-round appeal of its natural beauty. Whether it is the vibrant colors of fall foliage, the tranquility of a winter snowfall or the blossoming landscapes of spring, there is always a different kind of magic waiting outside.

Moreover, the community’s appreciation for preserving these outdoor spaces ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy them. It is not just a place to live; it is a commitment to a lifestyle that values and celebrates the incredible outdoors. Cumberland County has truly become our haven, providing not just a home but a canvas for countless outdoor adventures and cherished memories.

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