Bird count needs eyes and ears

WASHINGTON — Steep Rock Association, a land trust recognized for excellence in Washington, asks for your eyes and ears to help with conducting scientific research on birds.

On Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., become a citizen scientist by embarking on a birding excursion in Macricostas Preserve. The data collected (tally of all birds observed) will be reported to the Litchfield Hills Audubon Society as the STeep Rock Association’s contribution to Audubon’s 118th Christmas Bird Count. The CBC was created to document trends in North American bird populations over time. With such a broad geographic and temporal scope, this project relies on public input and exemplifies the value of citizen science: a method where non-professionals perform meaningful science.

SRA welcomes all degrees of expertise from seasoned ornithologists to first-time birders. The diversity of habitats in this preserve makes it home to a variety of species and will be a great opportunity for all to build birding skills in a group setting. Traversing a boardwalk through meadow, stalking around forest/field edge, and scanning Meeker Swamp will surely turn up quality sightings. After wet weather and a low number of species observed in Connecticut last year, SRA is extra ready to record a long list.

The hike will start at the main Macricostas Preserve parking lot (124 Christian Street, New Preston) and proceed over level terrain. Please bring warm clothing, hiking shoes, and a pair of binoculars if available. All ages are welcome; however, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration is helpful, but not required, and donations are gratefully accepted. Please register online at http://www.steeprockassoc.org/ programs-and-events or call the office at 860-868-9131 Monday — Friday, 8 a.m.to 4 p.m.

Hearst Connectucut Media file photo Jerry Acton of New York caught this image of a downy woodpecker during a previous bird count in Connecticut.