CAS Citizen Science Training Session: Breeding Bird Survey 6/19/2010

Would you like to be get involved in CAS' citizen science programs? Or would you like to learn how to carry out a breeding bird survey but never knew what it entailed? Now you can!

Our 2010 Connecticut State of the Birds report (download a copy here) describes in great detail the importance of citizen science in providing the data needed to make smart and educated conservation decisions in the state. Historically, Connecticut birders have made a huge impact on bird conservation, but now and in future years there is a growing need for people trained to systematically collect the information necessary to best protect our birds and their habitats. You can become involved too by joining CAS staff Frank Gallo, Scott Kruitbosch and Twan Leenders on a breeding bird survey on CAS' 155-acre Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary adjacent to our Fairfield center located on 2325 Burr Street, Fairfield, on Saturday June 19 from 9-12AM.

Not only will you be participating in a breeding bird survey but you will be taught the techniques and protocols associated with this type of survey so you can carry out similar surveys elsewhere in Connecticut.

The Larsen Sanctuary harbors both irregular breeders such as Cedar Waxwings...

...and common species like the American Robin.

Participants to this training session will familiarize themselves with breeding bird survey codes and learn what types of observations qualify to categorize a specific species as a possible, probable or confirmed breeder.

Finding fledglings, such as these Wild Turkey poults, clearly indicates a "confirmed breeding" record!

Similarly, a nest with eggs (American Woodcock shown here) is a confirmation of breeding, but
observations during breeding bird surveys are not always this clear-cut.

Come join Frank, Scott and Twan on this survey and learn as you enjoy an exciting morning of birding during the peak of the songbird breeding season! Anyone who completes this training session and enrolls in future CAS citizen science training courses will receive credit toward the practical component of such classes. Contact Frank Gallo at the CAS Coastal Center (203-878 7440) for more information. Fee: $45 CAS members, $75 non-members.

Turkey poult and Woodcock nest photos by Scott Kruitbosch; other images by Twan Leenders