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Great Backyard Bird Count starting All across North America, birds face survival challenges ranging from loss of habitat to introduced predators and diseases such as West Nile virus. The 6th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count (February 14-17) will add new information to the understanding of birds' movement and overall health. Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society call on birders of every age and skill level to make the count possible. 'We need every birder to join us,' said Audubon Senior Vice President of Science Frank Gill. 'The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) has become a vitally important means of gathering data to help birds, but it can't happen unless people take part. Whether you're a novice or an expert, we need you to take part and help us help birds.' A project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon, with sponsorship from Wild Birds Unlimited, the GBBC combines high-tech Web tools with an army of citizen-scientist bird observers. The GBBC asks families, individuals, classrooms, and community groups to count the numbers and kinds of birds that visit their feeders, local parks, schoolyards, and other areas during any or all of the four count days. Participants enter their sightings at BirdSource, www.birdsource.org/gbbc Begun in 1998, the GBBC has engaged more than a quarter of a million Americans of all ages and backgrounds, and united them in the effort to keep common birds common. On the Web site you will find a vocabulary section, bird watching and bird-feeding tips, bird vocalizations, and more. Educators will find the bibliography and geography sections especially handy, and will also find suggestions on how to conduct the count with groups of kids. For those tired of winter and ready for spring, there will be tips about planning and preparing for the spring bird garden. Those who would like to participate but aren't online can try their local library. There is no fee or registration. Libraries, businesses, nature clubs, Scout troops, and other community organizations interested in promoting the GBBC or getting involved can contact the Cornell Lab of Ornithology at 800.843.2473 (outside the U.S., call 607.254.2473); 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca NY 14850.
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