I guess we are all creatures of our own environment and past experiences, even when it comes to our preferences in our pursuits.
Birding is a good example for me. Had I been raised in prime warbler country, rather than prime sparrow country, I might be a warbler addict, like so many local Chicago area birders I know. Had I been raised along the shores of Lake Michigan, rather than in the midst of wonderful prairie marshes, I might be more of a gull fan than a shorebird fan. To be sure, I am enjoying this area and the wonderful
birding opportunities it provides, but my heart still is, and always will be, out on the
prairie.