Mass Audubon Needs Volunteers for Winter Bird Count

Focus on Feeders asks volunteers to watch their bird feeders February 2 and 3 and list the species and the greatest number of each seen at one time on the feeders in their yards.

Record one count for each species seen then submit the simple report form to Mass Audubon. Participants’ names will be entered in a drawing to win one of several prizes.

According to a Mass Audubon release, anyone can participate including families, first-timers, and veteran bird enthusiasts. Participants will be able to learn and share information about the birds that visit their yards and feeders in winter. They will also be contributing knowledge to more than 40 years of winter bird feeder sighting information.

"The data collected is more valuable the greater the participation, be sure to ask friends and neighbors to join the fun! Focus on Feeders is a great example of the type of enjoyable and educational events, programs and other opportunities to connect with nature that Mass Audubon offers to its members and the public," reads the release.

Information on how to participate and submit reports can be found at www.massaudubon.org/focus. Last year, nearly 100 species were reported in 292 communities statewide, thanks to more than 850 observers.

“Watching birds at feeders is a fun and educational way to connect with nature, while contributing useful information about the winter status of common birds in Massachusetts,” Wayne Petersen, director of Mass Audubon’s Important Bird Areas program, said. “We invite one and all to join with hundreds of other bird lovers in this enjoyable weekend survey.”