For those interested in participating in the Refugio de Potosi Christmas Bird Count, here are some notes put out by the Refugio about the activity and schedule that will give you an idea of what’s in store for your ecological adventure:
Remember, the bird count is tomorrow, December 15th, 2011… so join in!
Playa Blanca / Barra de Potosi Bird Count 2011
Thank for participating in our first annual Christmas Bird Count!
Some tips to help us have a successful and accurate count.Review the birds on the count list. (We are still refining the bird list. We are correcting errors.
Do alert us to errors you note.)Review your bird guide. Make it easier on yourself by focusing your attention on the birds known
to be found in your assigned habitat.All bird species seen or heard are to be counted
Identify the species and the numbers seen
Tally your final counts on the count form (provided at El Refugio)
If you have questions about a species take photos for confirmation and maintain a list of the
number you see.Avoid double counting. Do not cross outside of your area.
If you retrace your steps, do not recount the species you have previously counted. But if a new
species is encountered, include them in your count.For large roost counts, estimate the number of birds in the AM and PM to include in your count.
With few exceptions, no other individuals of that species should be included in the final tally.Any unusual bird must be documented. Make a sketch or photograph it on the spot. There is
a rare bird form. Rare birds are birds found outside of their expected range or habitat. They
require a special layer of documentation to support including them in the count.Tally your final counts on the count form.
Depending on the habitat, we will be counting via boat, car, or on foot.
Keep notes about your route and distances so we can use the same routes each year. Watch
for fixed landmarks and note them in your folders. If you have a GPS please use it. Note
odometer readings on the car. Note time traveled and speed in the boat. Note currents if you
are in the water.Distances traveled on foot while searching for birds rarely exceeds 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) per
hour.Depending on your location, make notes of the weather, off shore winds, other factors that may
influence the count.Feeder watchers are to record the maximum number of each species tallied at one time.
Bring cell phones, binoculars, bird guides, hats, sun glasses, sun screen. We have extra water
at El Refugio. Tamales will be available in the morning as breakfast bars! There will be tacos
ready for your break. Emergency number 755 557 28 40 Laurel
