Overview
- Participants tell a partner about a real or invented bird sighting to see whether curiosity or follow-up questions appear.
- USA TODAY reviewed clips showing that “passing” often involves questions or added commentary, while some partners offer little response without context.
- Licensed counselor Vanessa Milagros says the appeal reflects a desire to feel seen and advises focusing on overall responsiveness rather than keeping score.
- The coverage links the idea to research popularized by John Gottman on turning toward small bids for connection, with psychologist Alexandra Solomon warning that a single moment proves little.
- The trend resurfaced in late October on TikTok, has been driven largely by women, and has drawn celebrity attention, including a video involving rapper Yung Gravy.