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Earth Gauge: Great Backyard Bird Count

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By Nick Piesco - email

The 2011 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) takes place from February 18-21. Each year, bird watchers across the country tally the birds they see in backyards, parks, and natural areas. Last year, GBBC participants racked up more than 10 million observations! Counting birds during GBBC helps scientists gain a "snapshot" of North America's winter bird population and investigate important questions, including:

  • Have this winter's snow and cold temperatures influenced bird populations?
  • Are there differences in bird diversity in cities, suburban, rural and natural areas?
  • Are there any bird populations that are declining?

GBBC counts have also helped scientists record the spread of Eurasian Collared Doves, understand the impact of West Nile virus on crows, and capture the paths of Sandhill Crane migrations.

Anyone can participate in GBBC by tallying birds for at least 15 minutes on any day of the count. Simple instructions for counting and reporting birds are available at www.birdsource.org/gbbc/howto.html. You can also find regional bird checklists, photo galleries, resources for kids and more!

GBBC is a joint project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Audubon, and Bird Studies Canada.

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