Bird counts involve children in citizen science projects where a greater community contributes to the data used by scientists to understand bird behavior and more. The Great Backyard Bird Count is happening now and counting can take place through Monday, February 15th, so there is still time for your students to participate.

This annual four-day event is led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, with Canadian partner Bird Studies Canada and sponsorship from Wild Birds Unlimited. Gathering data over many years makes them more meaningful. The shortest length of observation that can be submitted is just the right amount of time for young children—15 minutes! And, you do not have to be outside to count. Counting from a window is perfectly acceptable and “Your counting always counts!” Visit the Great Backyard Bird Count at www.birdsource.org/gbbc/ and learn how your students can contribute data.
I’ll let you know what I see tomorrow. There are plenty of Mourning Doves, House Sparrows, Blue Jays, Northern Cardinals, and Black-capped Chickadees around even with all the snow we’ve had in the last weeks.
Peggy