Thanksgiving Bird Counts were begun in 1966, but are not as well known as the Christmas Bird Counts and Breeding Bird Surveys. Therefore, recruiting new count participants is an on-going task. Dr. John Hewston, of Humboldt State University, began coordinating and compiling these counts for the Western States in 1992, and is trying to build up the number and distribution of counters. These counts take place on Thanksgiving Day and last for only ONE HOUR. Participants select the hour that best fits his/her holiday schedule. Many former participants have indicated that they welcome the one-hour break on Thanksgiving. Most counters make their counts at their own homes, but some do so while visiting elsewhere, or make a special trip to some favorite spot to make the count.

Counters are to select a count circle measuring 15-feet in diameter, which is an area where local birds are expected to show up, or congregate. Actually, the "circle" can be considered a cylinder, since one may count birds on the ground, at feeders or bird baths, in the bushes or trees, or flying through or over the count circle. Participants usually select a site readily visible from a comfortable viewing spot at a window. Total numbers of all species entering the count area during the hour are to be counted -- but only once. Do not count the same birds more than once. This may mean estimating how many times a single bird enters and leaves or counting a flock when its numbers are highest, then using only that figure. Practicing a few days or weeks ahead of actual count time helps get used to what birds will occur.

There isn't space to publish the field form here; those of you who have access to the November 1997 newsletter can make a copy of the form published there; there's also a copy on the web page that can be printed. We can also have some available at the general meeting for those who are interested.