Great Backyard Bird Count Coming Up

Beautiful American Goldfinch from 2013 GBBC
Photo by Pamela Wertz

It is time to prepare for the upcoming Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), February 14 - 17, 2014. This is a great opportunity to visit all of those nearby places we overlook to look for birds and report your sightings via eBird or on the GBBC website.

In 2013 almost 135,000 checklists were submitted as part of this project.

This is great opportunity for classrooms, scouting groups and new birders to get out and learn about the birds. The time can be as little as 15 minutes, or as long as you are still having a good time.

Locally, two group GBBC events are planned--if you want to take part, but don't feel our bird identification skills are up to par, team up with some more experienced birdwatchers at these events.

• January 15, 9 AM, Lake Arrowhead State Park
• January 16, 9 AM, Behind Wild Bird Rescue

 In addition, I'll be doing some independent bird counts  on the 14th and 17th, and would welcome any new birders who would like to take part. Just contact me at txbirds@gmail.com or comment below.