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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.

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.

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.

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.

Being a FeederWatcher provides multiple rewards for those who enjoy birding. Participants are given a unique opportunity to closely observe birds and help in their conservation at the same time. Project materials sent to the counters also make a nice bonus.

Follow this link to treat your wild birds to a bird feeder or birdhouse. To read more about Project FeederWatch, visit http://www.birds.cornell.edu/pfw/ You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.

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