Kansas bird lovers asked to count their backyard birds
PRATT -- With a cold December 2005 already on record, January 2006 may shape up to be a great time to attract hungry birds and delight those who love to watch them. This will provide bird lovers the perfect opportunity to help those involved in bird conservation.

Each January, Kansas bird watchers are asked to observe and record the number and species of birds visiting their backyard feeders. This January, Kansans are asked to observe their feeders two consecutive days during January 12-15, 2006, then report the results to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

During those two days, viewers record the times of days they observe and the numbers of each species they see. Then they visit the KDWP website and either print a survey out or access it online . Participants use the form to describe their feeders and record the birds they see. In spaces provided, they list the highest number of each species seen together at any one time. For example, if 10 juncos are seen at 9 a.m., 11 at noon, and 7 at 4 p.m., the number recorded is 11.

Participants are asked to count only during two consecutive days and record only birds seen at their feeders, under their feeders, or in the trees around their feeders. KDWP wants information only about birds influenced by feeders. Birds that fly past a house and do not use feeding areas are not counted.

If an exact count cannot be determined, the best estimate is recorded. For more information, phone 620-672-5911.
-30-

Back to 12/22/05 News