- The Great Backyard Bird Count is a global event that engages bird enthusiasts in identifying and counting birds to aid scientific research and conservation efforts.
- The process of participating in the bird count is simple, involving observation, identification, and submission of data using digital tools such as the Merlin Bird ID app and the eBird platform.
- Birdwatching can be a deeply fulfilling activity that fosters a connection to nature, enhances biodiversity awareness, and contributes to wildlife conservation.
- Rolling Hills Zoo offers both seasoned birdwatchers and novices a wonderful opportunity to engage with local bird species as part of the global bird count initiative.
- The event serves as an excellent opportunity for collaborative environmental stewardship, encouraging people from all backgrounds to partake in the study and protection of birds globally.
With birds present in every habitat across the globe, their behaviors and diversities offer a glimpse into the vitality of ecosystems. The Great Backyard Bird Count is a celebration of avian life and an open invitation to engage in global conservation efforts. This annual event encourages people worldwide to observe and document bird species, providing vital data that assists scientists and conservators in tracking avian populations and understanding their ecological roles.
Participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count is both rewarding and straightforward. Participants can start by choosing a location where they will watch birds, which can be as exotic as the verdant landscapes of Rolling Hills Zoo or as familiar as one’s own backyard. This decision sets the stage for a personal adventure in ornithology, whether amidst the exotic residents of a zoo environment or the native species inhabiting neighborhood gardens.
Once a location is selected, the next step involves dedicating at least 15 minutes to birdwatching. This period can be leisurely or intense, inviting individuals to notice and appreciate the variety of bird species that frequent their chosen area. Observers are encouraged to look beyond immediate appearances and discern bird calls and behaviors, providing a fuller sense of the avian ecosystem.
Identifying birds is a key component of the count, and tools like the Merlin Bird ID app and eBird Mobile app simplify the process for both novices and veteran birdwatchers. The Merlin Bird ID app assists beginners by helping them recognize birds based on simple observations. It serves as a digital companion, offering photos and calls for easier identification. Meanwhile, the eBird platform is tailored for those already familiar with bird species, allowing the compilation of detailed lists that convey the richness of sighted avian life.
Through each submission, individuals contribute to a global dataset that benefits scientific understanding. Bird counts from Rolling Hills Zoo or any participant’s backyard are amalgamated into a vast repository of information. This data is essential for ornithologists who monitor changes in bird distribution, population trends, and migratory patterns. In doing so, they can detect early signs of environmental changes, flagging areas where conservation measures might be urgent.
Engagement through the Great Backyard Bird Count also nurtures a connection to nature, promoting wildlife appreciation. Observers learn the significance of each bird species to their ecosystem, gaining insights into how birds contribute to environmental health. This awareness builds a foundational understanding that spark broader discussions on sustainability and the importance of preserving habitats.
Rolling Hills Zoo exemplifies an ideal location for this endeavor, drawing attention to its range of avian visitors. From exotic species in zoo exhibits to native birds visiting from the surrounding area, the diversity at Rolling Hills provides an enriching experience for participants. By hosting birdwatchers, the zoo contributes to this international effort, fostering community participation in scientific pursuits.
Overall, the Great Backyard Bird Count is a powerful reminder of our role in conserving natural heritage. It emphasizes the collective effort required to protect biodiversity, with bird enthusiasts everywhere playing an integral part. By coming together for a unified cause, we can harness a wealth of local knowledge to illuminate global ecological trends and responses.
For more details and resources on participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count, visit birdcount.org or explore local opportunities to connect with nature. Addressing this event with enthusiasm not only supports bird conservation but also deepens our understanding of the interconnectedness and fragility of life on Earth. As we look to the skies, the birds serve as indicators of the planet’s health, and our engagement with them can drive positive change for a sustainable future.
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Source Description
Birds are everywhere, all the time, doing fascinating things. Now through February 17th, the whole world will be coming together for the love of birds for the Great Backyard Bird Count!
If you enjoy watching birds, you can be an integral part of a global event where you can help identify them, count them, and submit them to help scientists better understand and protect birds around the globe!
You can even participate in this movement right here at Rolling Hills Zoo, where we have a variety of beautiful feathered friends that visit our Zoo. Or, if you prefer, you can do this at home right in your own backyard!
Participating is easy and fun to do alone or with others!
Step 1: Decide where you will watch birds.
Step 2: Watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once now through February 17th.
Step 3: Identify all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings:
@MerlinBird ID: If you are a beginner bird admirer and new to bird identification, try using the Merlin Bird ID app to tell us what birds you are seeing or hearing.
eBird: If you have participated in the count before and want to record numbers of birds, try the eBird Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website (desktop/laptop).
It’s that easy!
For more information on how you can connect to birds, to nature and with each other, visit www.birdcount.org/participate.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
