Great Backyard Bird Count February 18-21

LEWISTON - The Palouse Audubon Society, Canyon Birders and the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology ask area bird watchers to participate in the 7th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count scheduled for February 18 through 21, 2005. Joel Sauder, Idaho Department of Fish and Game nongame biologist in Lewiston, says the bird surveys are fun, important and simple to complete. "Anyone interested in birds can participate," he said. "Basic bird identification skills and 15 minutes of time observing birds in your backyard, local park or wildlife area are all that's required." Bird enthusiasts are encouraged to review the Great Backyard Bird Count website at www.birdsource.org for information how to conduct the count, tips on bird identification, downloadable data forms and online submissions of results. The web site includes information on bird feeding; how to use binoculars; how to make your yard bird-friendly; and how to identify similar looking species. Report forms and instructions can also be obtained at Idaho Department of Fish and Game Clearwater Region office located at 1540 Warner Avenue in Lewiston. Those without computers can contact their local library or the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology at (800) 843-2473 or the National Audubon Society at (212) 979-3083 for more information. According to Sauder, birds face survival challenges ranging from loss of habitat to introduced predators and diseases such as West Nile Virus. Data collected during the Great Backyard Bird Count will add important new information to the understanding of bird's movements and overall health by focusing attention on common birds as well as birds of special concern. When compared from year to year, this information will give scientists an immense picture of winter bird populations nationwide. "Both novice and expert bird watchers will have fun, plus their efforts will ultimately help birds," Sauder added.