CLARION – The 30th annual Clarion Christmas Bird Count will be held Sunday, Dec. 17. The count is conducted by the Seneca Rocks Audubon Society.
“New counters are always welcome and may participate either individually, by watching a home bird feeder, or by joining a group in the field,” said count compiler and longtime Seneca Rocks member Gary Edwards.
There is no fee for participating.
“Each citizen scientist who braves snow, wind, or rain to take part makes a significant contribution to conservation,” Edwards added.
The Audubon Society and other organizations use data collected nationwide in this longest-running wildlife census – 117 years – to aid in assessing the health of bird populations and to guide conservation action.
Counts take place within 15-mile diameter count circles.
The Clarion count circle has the Clarion railroad trestle as its center and includes Callensburg, Clarion, Curlsville, Knox, Marianne, Oak Grove, Reidsburg, Shippenville, Sligo and Strattanville. The circle is divided into sections, with teams of counters assigned to each section. The count compiler – in this case Edwards – coordinates the assignments based on individual preference and birding experience.
“All field groups have enthusiastic, experienced leaders who enjoy sharing their knowledge and especially invite beginners to join the fun,” Edwards said.
People that live within the boundaries of the Clarion count circle have the option of staying at home and reporting the birds they see visiting their feeders. Arrangements must be made with the feeder watch coordinator who is Seneca Rocks member Deb Freed.
Interested persons may see if they are within the count circle by visiting the Seneca Rocks website at http://www.senecarocksaudubon.org. People should click on Go Birding, then choose Bird Counts, CBC and Map of Clarion County Circle.
“Even if you chose not to actively participate, ensuring feeders are filled on Sunday, Dec. 17 will make counting easier for the field teams,” Edward said. “It’s really an enjoyable day with good companionship and, hopefully, lots of birds.”
Interested persons and potential participants may contact Edwards at 676-3011 or gedwards@csonline.net or Freed at 226-4719.