Global bird count helps scientists collect data on wild birds

This bird was spotted in Quebec as part of the Great Backyard Bird Count, taking place this weekend around the world.

It isn’t too late to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count.

The global event, which started Friday and continues through Monday, involves people from around the world spending time in their favourite places – a park, or the backyard perhaps – to count as many birds as you can, then reporting how many you’ve seen.

The event, first launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, was the first online participatory science project to collect data on wild birds.

Birds Canada joined the project in 2009 and in 2013, the whole thing went global.

On its website, Birds Canada said, “Anyone can participate, from beginners to experts. You can count for as little as 15 minutes on a single day, or for as long as you like each day of the event.

“it’s free, fun and easy – and it helps the birds.”

All that bird counters have to do is watch birds for at least 15 minutes at least once between Feb. 14 and Feb. 17.

Try to identify any birds you see or hear. If you are a bird newbie, try using the Merlin Bird ID app.

If you have counted before, and want to record numbers of birds, try the eBird Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website.

For more information or to download apps, go here.