PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Birding enthusiasts will soon be scanning fields, forests and feeders in a day-long tally of local birds as part of National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count, an annual event among central Aroostook birders since 1964. This year’s Presque Isle Christmas Bird Count takes place on New Year’s Day, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011.
According to local coordinator, Bill Sheehan, 30 species of birds are seen in a typical local bird count and as many as 70 different species have been recorded since the Presque Isle count began. The census is done in a “count circle” within a seven-mile radius of downtown Presque Isle. Field volunteers cover assigned areas and count all wild birds seen, with feeder watchers recording birds visiting home feeders throughout the day. Local birders gather afterwards for a potluck dinner and tally of results.
Sheehan describes the day’s activities as a “holiday tradition” with many added benefits. “It couples outdoor activity and a chance to learn about our local birdlife. It’s a great way to contribute nationwide to bird monitoring efforts and the conservation of birds.” He emphasizes that bird watchers of all skill levels are invited and new birders can usually be paired with an experienced volunteer who will help with identification and count rules.
This year, organizers would like to see as many birders as possible take part in the count; and are providing special instruction in a pre-count Workshop and Bird Walk. The workshop begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 11 at the William V. Haskell Community and Recreation Center in Presque Isle, followed by a short bird walk through Mantle Lake Park.
“We hope that beginning birders and more experienced folks who have never participated in a Christmas Bird Count will come out to – kick the tires,” says Sheehan, “learn why we do the count and how the birds are surveyed, plus get tips on finding and identifying local birds before the actual count day.”
With enough interest from community members, organizers will explore the possibility of adding a second count to include portions of Caribou, Fort Fairfield and Limestone in future years.
For information about the Dec. 11 Workshop/Bird Walk or Presque Isle Christmas Bird Count, contact Sheehan evenings at 493-4658 or daytime at 760-3136.
