Western Bluebird and chicks - Photo permission given by Tom and Pat Backe

Climate Watch Survey Begins May 15 - June 15

Volunteers Needed

by Joyce Volmut

The climate is affecting the birds around you. Since 2016, OPAS volunteers have been collecting data that Audubon scientists use in peer-reviewed research to document how birds are responding to climate change and shifting their ranges. Now, we’re calling on you to join this effort by observing birds in your backyard or in an area of your choice. Your participation will help us better understand how target bird species respond in our region. You may choose up to 12 different locations, but each location must be a stand-alone survey.

*Western Bluebird and chicks - Photo permission given by Tom and Pat Backe*

Climate Watch focuses on bluebirds, nuthatches, towhees and goldfinches. Anyone can participate. The target birds in our area are the Western and Mountain Bluebird, the Red-breasted Nuthatch, the Spotted Towhee, the American Goldfinch, and the Lesser Goldfinch.

Climate Watch occurs twice a year - to detect wintering ranges of birds (January 15- February 15) and to detect the breeding range (May 15 - June 15).

The protocol is simple:

Choose a location or multiple locations.
Count all the birds you see or hear within five minutes at each chosen location.
Record the birds counted at each location on a separate checklist on eBird or on a special tally sheet provided by the program or you may use the Audubon app.
Return the tally sheets or share eBird check lists with me so I can send the tallies to National Audubon. If you use the Audubon app, the checklist will go directly to them.
Record the start time and stop time for each survey location. Remember it cannot be over 5 minutes.

It’s very important that you follow the Audubon protocol. The protocol has been carefully developed to detect how birds are responding to climate change.

For further information contact joyce.volmut@gmail.com.