Photography Blog

Those who enjoy birdwatching can now turn their hobby into research for North American birds. Each year the Cornell Lab of Ornithology organizes a count of feeder birds across the country. The effort is called Project FeederWatch and those who participate simply count the number of birds present at a given place and given time.

The great public bird count is scheduled for November through April each year. Those wanting to take part in a given year must enroll by the end of February, and registration is continuously open. The task involves making a tally of the total birds seen at a specific point in time. This method prevents duplicate counting and avoids constant monitoring of the count area.

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.

Information gathered by Project FeederWatch appears in science journals and is studied by scientists and bird enthusiasts throughout the country. Those who participate are contributing to valuable research and the conservation of bird species. They also gain a better understanding of local birds that frequent the neighborhood.

The bird count is open to every type of individual and group. Currently it includes people of all skill levels and backgrounds: Classrooms, individuals, families, children, bird clubs, nature centers, youth groups, and retired persons. The count provides great learning opportunities for families and organizations. In short, everyone with an appreciation for birds is welcome.

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.

The location for counting can vary though it must be consistent. An area with a bird feeder or birdhouse can be ideal, though any bird-friendly part of the yard will suffice. If one enjoys watching birds, they will certainly know where to find them. The FeederWatch materials provide good guidance on picking a location and other aspects of the count.

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.