
Why New York State Wants to Know About Your Backyard Birds
They say that snitches get stiches, but in just a few weeks that's exactly what Hudson Valley residents will be asked to do on their backyard birds.
Recently, New York residents were asked to help keep tabs on local wild turkeys by reporting sightings to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). Now, the request has widened.
The Great Backyard Bird Count Comes to the Hudson Valley
"GET YOUR BINOCULARS READY!", began a recent post from Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park. They were helping spread the word about an important four-day stretch in February called the Great Backyard Bird Count (below).
How to Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count
The program's official website shares some basic requirements for participation, including at least a 15-minute block between February 14th and 17th dedicated to counting individual birds by either identifying them by sight or by their birdcall. Luckily, some apps make both activities easier.
Recommended Birdwatching Apps
The Merlin Bird ID app came as the official recommendation for newbies looking to participate in the count. The app can assist with identifying birds by either sight or sound.

Birdwatching from the Hudson Valley to the Other Side of the World
One of the most exciting aspects of the communal bird counting is that this is an international event. While local Hudson Valley sites are encouraging participation, it will take birdwatchers from all across the globe if researchers are going to be able to glean any useful information.
29 Beautiful Backyard Birds of New York State
Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor
Photos: Massive Eagles Fight Over Fish on the Hudson
Gallery Credit: Jonah
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