Mass Audubon Holds Annual Winter Bird Count

Mass Audubon, which has a is again inviting the public to help monitor bird species in the coldest season by joining its Focus on Feeders annual winter bird count on February 4 and 5.

The survey asks bird enthusiasts of all abilities to list the species and greatest number of each seen at one time at feeders and in their yards during that weekend. Participants in the free event make separate lists for each species observed. They then submit a simple report form to Mass Audubon and their names will be entered in a random drawing to win one of several prizes.

Go online to learn how to participate and submit your lists. And keep your camera handy! Prizes will be awarded in several categories for images submitted for the event’s photo contest. Deadline for submissions of both bird reports and photographs is Wednesday, February 29.

In addition to Focus on Feeders being a fun event for families, first-timers, and veteran bird enthusiasts alike, these observations and lists contribute to a growing knowledge of bird life and potential changes in species and abundance.

Last year, 50 species were reported, thanks to nearly 1300 participants representing 315 communities out of 351 in the Commonwealth. And since the data collected is more valuable the greater the participation, be sure to ask friends and neighbors to join the fun!

 “Participating in Focus on Feeders is a fine way to capture a snapshot of winter bird populations, along with contributing some basic information about the relative seasonal abundance of common birds visiting backyard bird feeders throughout the Commonwealth,” said Wayne Petersen, director or Mass Audubon’s Important Bird Areas program.

 “Watching birds at bird feeders can range from purely therapeutic to contributing useful information about the winter status of common birds in Massachusetts,” Petersen noted.  “We invite one and all join with hundreds of other bird lovers across Massachusetts in this enjoyable weekend survey.”

Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for more than 34,000 acres of conservation land, provide educational programs for 225,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels. Mass Audubon's mission and actions have expanded since our beginning in 1896, when our founders set out to stop the slaughter of birds for use on women's fashions. Today we are the largest conservation organization in New England. Our statewide network of wildlife sanctuaries in 90 Massachusetts communities welcomes visitors of all ages and serves as the base for our work. To support these important efforts, call 800-AUDUBON (283-8266) or visit www.massaudubon.org

-Press release by Mass Audubon.