Charlottesville Bird Count
The 2011 Charlottesville Christmas Bird Count (CBC) will take place on Sunday, December 18. We will join tens of thousands of other volunteers around the country who, over a three-week period, will head out before dawn on a winter day to count the winter birds.
All levels of birders, from beginners to professional scientists, participate in the count.
These Citizen Scientists are taking action for conservation. By participating in the National Audubon Society's CBC they help scientists understand how birds are faring amid unprecedented environmental challenges. The data they collect
informs the world about the State of Birds, and provides the information we need to shape their future and ours. This is the 112th Christmas Bird Count.
Each count occurs in a designated circle, 15 miles in diameter, and is organized by a designated "compiler" -- Jenny Gaden for the Charlottesville CBC. The Monticello Bird Club sponsors the Charlottesville CBC by paying the $5 fee for all members of the club who participate. Non-members pay their own way.
Those interested in participating in the count should let Jenny know (434 293-6275; jengaden@gmail.com). If you are an inexperienced birder you
will be able to join a more experienced person or group. If you are an experienced birder maybe you would consider starting a new route in a part of the county which is currently not covered. Be prepared: bring hand and foot warmers if it's cold; bring snacks, lunch and water or a hot drink if you expect to get hungry and thirsty; bring a camera to support your case when you spot a rare bird. And bring enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure.
A potluck supper will follow the count at the home of Nancy O'Brien and Francis Fife. Directions will be available through the group leaders.
Warren Bird Count
The Warren, Virginia Christmas Bird Count (112th CBC) will be conducted on Sunday, January 1, 2012. The center of the 15- mile diameter of the Warren CBC circle is at Keene in southern Albemarle County and includes portions of Buckingham and Fluvanna Counties.
This count was first conducted by C.E. (Mo) Stevens, Jr. during the 48th
CBC (1947/1948). Compiler Allen Hale remembers vividly his first participation on this count with Mo on December 31, 1967 when a Great Blue Heron flew past in falling snow.
Please contact Allen Hale at 434-263-8671 or super@buteobooks.com if you're interested in participating. Members of the Monticello Bird Club
will have their $5 fee paid by the club, others please remit $5 per participant.
In an effort to get together and have a tally of the count, Barbara and Allen Hale will host a luncheon at Noon on Monday, January 2, 2012, at their residence in Nelson County which is also the Headquarters of Buteo
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