About!

Why are we here?

I am Hannes, a guy from Southern Germany (Swabia!) living in Southeast Michigan and, at the time of writing this, closing in on my 40th rotation around the sun. For this special occasion, I’ve started documenting and sharing the culinary and birding adventures I encounter. The name “Schnitzelbirder” probably gave away that it’s a bit of a mix!

I wanted full control over my content and to make it reachable for everyone with an internet connection. I ran a blog many years ago as a diary, but this time I am tackling things from a different angle: sharing my stories through recipes, guides, and reports.

Since you now know why I am here, the real question is: Why are you? It is likely you arrived for one of three reasons:

  1. You are my fiancé, Ali, and I am forcing you to read everything.
  2. I shared a recipe with you and you accidentally started browsing.
  3. Google or Instagram led you to a post and you decided to stay a while.

In all three cases, you are more than welcome! Herzlich Willkommen!

Why should you stay here?

As mentioned in my intro, I am a German living in the US. That means I can share this unique German-American experience with you.

On this page you will find:

  • German and American Recipes: My take on German classics like Spätzle and Jägersauce, old family recipes, and whatever new discoveries I make along the way.
  • Birding and Travel: Birding is a major passion of mine. You’ll find guides to local spots like Belle Isle alongside reports of my travel endeavors.
  • Food and Culture: My thoughts on local places to eat after a long day in the field, and my take on the fascinating cultural differences between my two homes.

Now what?

My first ever post on this page was my Snack Snail recipe. I am leaving it exactly as it is—a memorial to where it all began and a great starting point for my library of recipes.

If you want to keep up with my birthday adventures, the Kentucky trip report, and the upcoming spring migration, make sure to join my mailing list below! I send out a monthly update with all the “behind the scenes” stories.

I hope you enjoy the page! I look forward to your feedback, so please do not hesitate to reach out.

Hannes, the Schnitzelbirder.

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