U.S. Forest Service ready to count birds

The U.S. Forest Service is looking for volunteers for its annual Christmas Bird Count.

Idun Guenther, a wildlife biologist with the U.S. Forest Service in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests, said the 124th Audubon Christmas Bird Count will take place on Thursday, Dec. 28.

"Last year, we only had four folks covering the count circle, so if anyone is interested in helping out this year, please let me know as there are several interesting areas along the district that could use additional coverage,” said Guenther. “The count circle is a 15-mile radius from the center point, which in this case is southeast of La Grange. This count circle includes Lee and Phillips counties."

Guenther said the data helps biologists and conservationists observe trends in the population of certain species to be able to act and make plans quickly if the species needs a conservation effort.

"The reason this is important is because this is one of the longest running wildlife censuses in the world," said Guenther. "This began in 1900, and so this long-term study is really useful because it also provides information to conservationist and shows long term trends of bird populations. This information helps us by telling us indicator species of climate change. Through this, we can target bird species that need conservation efforts geared toward them. Once we notice a trend in the population of certain bird species, we know what to do about it to act and plan more quickly by using this data."

According to Guenther, participants do not have to commit to a certain number of hours to take part in the count.

"Since there will be various start and end times for our existing volunteers, there will be no in-person compilation gatherings that will take place," said Guenther. "There is no set start time since we won’t be meeting prior to the count except those volunteers that may be leaving with USFS personnel from the Mississippi River State Parks Visitor Center, but it’s always good to get an early start, such as sunrise, to see or hear birds. Participants can plan to be out several hours or longer if desired, like for owling. Participants don't have to commit a certain type of hours, but generally, they come early in the morning and count until the afternoon. It is really up to the person. If you plan to survey part of your section on foot, bring appropriate clothing for field surveying in cold weather and wear sturdy footwear. Don’t forget to bring your own binoculars, water and food or snacks for lunch."

Guenther said participants in some parts of the state are less likely to see waterfowl and other shore bird species unlike those taking part in the St. Francis National Forest who will likely see a number of shore bird and waterfowl species.

"In this area, since we are in more of a south center area, we are just looking for birds that are over-wintering in Arkansas," said Guenther. "You will get a few odd