Spring Bird Count

by | Apr 27, 2024

Spring Bird Count

May 4th

Once again, NIAS will be participating in the annual Spring Bird Count on May 4, 2024. The Spring Bird Count (SBC) is a yearly bird count sponsored by the Illinois Natural History Survey, and consists of volunteers conducting bird counts on the Saturday that falls between May 4 and May 10. The counts are conducted in all 102 counties in Illinois. This count has been going on for over 50 years! The website for more information is: https://spring-bird-count.inhs.illinois.edu/

NIAS has been participating for several years, compiling the Stephenson County count. For those familiar with the Christmas Bird Count, where the count boundary is a circle, the SBC boundary is the entire county. However, the process is the same, count every bird you see, so we can see where the trends are going in Stephenson County.

This year, I am looking for experienced birders who can devote at least 6 hours to the count. Depending on how many volunteers I get, I will split up the county accordingly so there are no overlaps and we can get as much coverage as possible. However, if you live in Stephenson County and would like to be a Feeder Counter, let me know, as that data will help as well.
Thank you!

Carol Beatty, Compiler
Stephenson County Spring Bird Count
Cjbeatty17@gmail.com
630-284-1134

Annual Midwest Crane Count

by | Mar 29, 2024

Annual Midwest Crane Count

BE PART OF CITIZEN SCIENCE CALLING ALL CRANE COUNTERS

Saturday, April 13 is the Annual Midwest Crane Count and Stephenson County has over 12 sites that are monitored each year as part of the Crane Count. Participants are on site from 5:30-7:30 am to listen and watch for cranes. It is a great way to participate in a citizen science project and enjoy the early morning sights and sounds.

Notify Teresa Smith at 815-238-3963 by April 3rd if you are interested in participating in this event.
Experienced and blossoming birders are encouraged to participate. No experience with crane counting is necessary! If you are new to the Crane Count you will be partnered with an experienced counter who can help you to learn more about cranes. Inexperienced counters can also learn more about cranes on the International Crane Count website savingcranes.org/

Individual preferences regarding carpooling will be accommodated. In past years, we have gathered together after the count to enjoy breakfast and sharing of crane stories, but have put this on hold the past 3 years. In 2024, we will plan to meet as a group after the count to share stories and turn in data sheets. Looking forward to hearing stories from the counters!