Green Lake Bird & Nature Club News
This week, Town Square checked in with Tom Schultz of the Bird & Nature Club to give us the scoop on the annual Christmas Bird Count, why it is essential to science as well as the community, and any updates on Bird Fest at Town Square in 2021.
Tom, for people who don’t know (including this interviewer), what is the Christmas Bird Count (CBC)?
“The Christmas Bird Count happens annually, all across the state and nation (and beyond). The National Audubon Society started the count in the year 1900. The count can occur on any day during a designated 3-week time period each year. This year was Green Lake’s 38th consecutive CBC (Christmas Bird Count), and for quite a few years, we have been holding ours on Dec. 31. ”
How is CBC done exactly?
“Each CBC is done within a 15-mile diameter count circle, which remains the same from year-to-year. The count circle is divided up into sections, with individuals or groups assigned to cover each area. The birders accomplish this by driving or walking (typically a combination), and they attempt to record every bird that they find in that area. After they’re done, they send their results to my compiler (Tom’s job), who totals all of the bird species and numbers of each. Each counter also keeps track of their “effort” – the number of hours and miles they’ve covered, both for driving and for “on foot” coverage. These “effort” totals make it easier to compare different past counts. Some of the birders start counting in the early hours of darkness to see which owls they can find and how many of each. ”
This Years Fast Facts:
35 Total Participants
9 Whom Counted from Their Home Feeders
5 DIfferent Species of Owls
70 Total Species - A New Record from 3 Years Ago (69)
What is the significance of doing the CBC both from a local perspective as well as on a broader scale?
“The Christmas Bird Count is the largest citizen-science effort anywhere, and the count has provided a massive database of bird observations over the years. Researchers can use the information to track annual changes and population trends.
Locally, I’d say the main benefit is the participants’ excitement and the challenge to see how many birds one can find on a given day. Many surprises (unusual birds) turn up each year, so it can be fun to encounter those. It’s also neat to compare the counts from year to year and see how they change. Very often, the counts are affected by the weather. There is more open water (unfrozen) during mild winters, which can increase the number and variety of waterfowl present. If the weather is mild and calm, it’s certainly easier to find birds and more fun – but if the day is frigid and windy, or perhaps there’s fog or a heavy snowfall, the participants will typically find fewer birds.”
Any updates about Bird Fest for 2021?
“Unfortunately, we don’t have any details yet for the Green Lake Bird Festival. We are still pretty uncertain about what we’ll be able to do this year, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It sure will be great when we can put this virus behind us!
Be sure to follow Green Lake Bird and Nature Club’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date information! ”
More Bird Related Activities Scheduled at Town Square for 2021
Be sure to sign up for additional bird-related programs already scheduled for this new year!
Wednesday, February 3 and 10, 7-9 p.m. – Woodworking Wednesdays: Birdhouse or Feeder
Be prepared to welcome your bird friends soon! In this hands-on, two part, class you will build a bird feeder or a birdhouse from a selection of materials. We will discuss what birds will use each option and what sort of placement will gain you the best results in your own yard. This class is for ages 5 to 105!
Wednesday, April 14, 7-8 p.m. – Woodworking Wednesday: Create a Wooden Comfort Bird Demonstration
Are you looking for a new hobby? Gary Hazelberg is back to introduce you to the joys of woodworking with a simple wood carving. During this demonstration, Gary will provide step-by-step instructions and safety tips* to carve your own wooden comfort bird.
Comfort birds are small wooden birds you can hold in the palm of your hand and by rubbing its smooth tail, it brings comfort to those holding one. Gary notes that the process of creating a comfort bird is relaxing too. These special little birds make great gifts especially for those who suffer from anxiety and stress.
If you’d like to try to create your own comfort bird on your own or during the demonstration, you can purchase wood blanks for $15 each at the Town Square Community Center front desk once you’ve registered. You will also need a cut-proof glove, a sharp knife, sandpaper, and wood oil to complete this project.
*All programs are subject to change.