When: Feb. 17-20
What: Many birdwatchers are dedicated to their hobby, even traveling far to catch a glimpse of a rare bird or devoting hours to learning plumage colors or size, to quickly identify species. This enthusiasm comes as a boon for many environmental and scientific organizations that rely on birders’ observations to track changes in bird populations and assess dangers to the creatures. Since many wild bird populations now show significant decreases, the 48 million birders in the U.S. are vital to environmental protection. During the Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 17 to 20, join these passionate bird lovers to track nearby bird populations and see what birds are coming back, or being lost.
Background: The Great Backyard Bird Count is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, the count was started as a way to gather data across the U.S. as birds began returning from their winter migrations. Individuals with an interest and some knowledge about identification record their observations and report their spottings to the Count, giving scientists a picture of America’s wild bird populations. The Count has also ignited an interest and passion for birdwatching in many participators, and an understanding of local birds brings much support for environmental and habitat protection initiatives.
Story Pitch: Serious birders invest a lot into their hobby, giving many companies an opportunity to promote their goods. Birding equipment includes binoculars and powerful cameras, as well as outdoor clothing and gear for camping and hiking. Manufacturers in these categories have a great chance to pitch their goods and share how they make birdwatching easier. With many birding groups, including the Great Backyard Bird Count, sponsoring photo contests, camera and lens manufacturers should also focus on how their equipment can help photograph birds from a far distance, or as they’re in flight. Parks and wildlife preserves can educate the public on the types of birds they might find, as well as how to stay safe and keep from disturbing wildlife on birdwatching expeditions. For the many birdwatchers who mainly keep an eye on their backyards, companies selling birdhouses, feed, and baths are able to promote their wares during this time. They should also note what bird populations are in danger or experiencing a comeback in a local community and promote products that are especially attractive to these species. Birders need thorough, detailed guides for identification, and publishers, artists and ornithological experts all have this occasion to educate and promote their expertise.
Story Hook: Birds face serious danger from habitat destruction, while urban threats also wreak havoc on diminishing populations. Each year, up to one billion birds are injured from flying into reflective glass buildings. As a result, many cities are responding with bird-friendly building standards and regulations. Even cats take a serious toll, with both feral and outdoor pet cats hunting and killing hundreds of millions of birds. How are architects and engineers protecting birds by responding to the dangers buildings can pose? Can animal rescue organizations help increase bird populations by taking in cats and educating owners on the dangers of letting their felines outdoors? Consider the following as you make your pitch:
- What bird populations have made a comeback due to protective measures?
- Why are birds important to the greater ecosystem?
- What species of birds are most common in your area? What kind of food do they eat? Where do they nest?
- How can someone help an injured bird? With spring on the way, what should birdwatchers know about baby birds?
Tips: An ornithologist is a great contact who can speak about common and rare birds, the threats they face and the importance of taking part in data collection like the Great Backyard Bird Count. Additionally, a representative from an animal rescue or rehabilitation organization can talk about the dangers birds face and how they are treated and saved by dedicated volunteers. Meanwhile, a bird lover would also make a great source to speak with about their passionate interest in birds.
Resources:
American Birding Association
(800) 850-2473
www.aba.org
American Bird Conservancy
(202) 234-7181
www.abcbirds.org
The Great Backyard Bird Count
citizenscience(at)audubon.org
www.birdsource.org/gbbc
National Audubon Society
(212) 979-3000
www.audubon.org
–Researched, compiled & written by Kristina Elliott
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