The Great American Bird Count

By Guest | May 28, 2009

Any backyard birdwatcher can become a volunteer researcher for Project FeederWatch managed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Volunteers help scientists track bird populations and movements by counting birds that visit yards and feeders. The final result is a coast to coast snapshot of bird life in North America.

Sign ups for the project take place from March 1st to the end of February and the actual observations occur from November through early April. Birdwatchers are instructed to count the types and number of birds in an area at a certain point in time. This approach keeps participants from counting a bird multiple times and allows for flexibility in scheduling.

There is a $15 annual participation fee which covers the majority of the expense of the entire project. Participants receive a research kit which includes instructions, a bird identification poster, a wall calendar, a resource guide to bird feeding, and a tally sheet. U.S. participants also receive a subscription to the Lab of Ornithology’s newsletter.

The results of the FeederWatch project are regularly published in scientific journals and used by ornithologists and bird lovers around the nation. Participants make a real contribution to the study and conservation of feeder birds. The nature of the count also allows for a better understanding of local bird populations.

FeederWatch is definitely an equal opportunity event. Participants come from every background and walk of life: Retired persons, youth organizations, nature centers, birdwatching clubs, kids, school classes, and individuals. Learning opportunities abound for both groups and families. The bottom line is that anyone who admires birds is welcome to join.

Participants are free to choose how much time they invest. Organizers of the project provide many options for when and how long to count birds. As the main approach is to provide numbers for a set span of time, those with busy schedules and small amounts of recreational time can still provide meaningful results.

Options for the location of birdwatching are flexible but must remain constant. Often a location that includes a feeder is used, but any defined area frequented by birds is acceptable. Birdwatchers by their very nature will know where to find birds. The kit provided by Project FeederWatch will give advice and examples on choosing a good location.

Project FeederWatch is a win-win for those with a love of birdwatching. One can admire these beautiful creatures while providing a meaningful contribution to their well-being. The birding tools provided are also worth the effort.

To attract a variety of birds to your yard, follow this link to bird feeders and birdhouses. To further investigate Project FeederWatch, go to http://www.birds.cornell.edu/pfw/

Article kindly provided by UberArticles.com

Topics: WildLife | Comments Off

Reprint Rights

Comments are closed.