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.
Annual counts take place from November through early April. Registration begins March 1st for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. FeederWatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.
Those who take part in the count receive some great tools and information. The package sent to participants includes a tally sheet, a publication on feeding birds, a calendar, a poster to aid in identifying birds, and instructions on all of the above. The annual fee is $15 which covers most of the expense of the operation, and includes a newsletter subscription.
Data collected in Project FeederWatch is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.
The door is open for all types of persons and organizations to take part in the count. Past projects have included retirees, youth groups, nature centers, individuals, schools, and birding clubs. There are ample opportunities to combine count activities with formal learning or family time together. Anyone with a love of birds will receive and provide a benefit.
The amount of time spent counting birds is up to the participant. The FeederWatch organizers provide multiple scenarios for both days and hours invested. As the strategy is to count the birds present at a given point in time, those with little free time on their hands can still provide accurate information.
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.
Annual counts take place from November through early April. Registration begins March 1st for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. FeederWatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.
Those who take part in the count receive some great tools and information. The package sent to participants includes a tally sheet, a publication on feeding birds, a calendar, a poster to aid in identifying birds, and instructions on all of the above. The annual fee is $15 which covers most of the expense of the operation, and includes a newsletter subscription.
Data collected in Project FeederWatch is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.
The door is open for all types of persons and organizations to take part in the count. Past projects have included retirees, youth groups, nature centers, individuals, schools, and birding clubs. There are ample opportunities to combine count activities with formal learning or family time together. Anyone with a love of birds will receive and provide a benefit.
The amount of time spent counting birds is up to the participant. The FeederWatch organizers provide multiple scenarios for both days and hours invested. As the strategy is to count the birds present at a given point in time, those with little free time on their hands can still provide accurate information.
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.
About the Author:
Bill Stewart is a devoted outdoorsman who has watched birds on four continents. Following these passions, he has developed websites for finding quality bird feeders and binoculars.
0 comments:
Post a Comment