It's Time for the Great Backyard Bird Count!

Do you enjoy watching the birds? Would you like to help scientists better understand the world of birds?  Then become a particitpant in this year's Great Backyard Bird Count! From the GBBC website:

Today through Monday, February 18, we invite you to be part of this massive citizen-science effort. The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) helps scientists learn where birds are in winter. Join tens of thousands of fellow bird watchers from around the world by counting the number of individuals of each species you saw during a single counting session (of at least 15 minutes) and submitting your checklist to www.birdcount.org. You can report any birds you see, even those birds flying overhead. Submit a new checklist for each day and for each new location. You can count in as many locations as you like. Just be sure to enter a new list for each site.

This year the GBBC is being integrated with the eBird online checklist system—which means that the count will be global for the first time. Anyone, anywhere, with Internet access can take part in the count. If you already participate in Project FeederWatch or another Cornell Lab citizen science project, you will not need to create a new account for the GBBC. To enter counts to the GBBC, go to www.birdcount.org, and you’ll be prompted to enter your login information. Then you’ll select your location on a map, answer a few questions, enter your tallies, and share your sightings with others around the world.

GBBC Participant Perks

Drawing Prizes

Don't forget to check out some of the great prizes you could win just by taking part in the GBBC. We'll award prizes in a random drawing from among all participants.

Birding App Special

A special GBBC offer on the BirdLog app is available through the February 18. You can get the BirdLog app for iPhone (iOS4 and higher) and Android smartphones for just 99 cents. BirdLog allows you to upload your sightings from the field into the free eBird online checklist program as well as the GBBC. Take it for a test flight today!

Software Deal

GBBC participants can also get a special deal from Thayer Software. You'll receive a 20% discount on Thayer Birding Software DVDs at the OnlineNatureMall. Just enter the promotional code “GBBC” at checkout. Offer valid now through March 30.

Please consider participating in this free, fun, late-winter bird count!