Celebrate the Great Backyard Bird Count at Petrified Forest National Park

Date: February 1, 2016
Contact: Hallie Larsen, 928-524-6228 x274

Petrified Forest, AZ—Petrified Forest National Park is located along a branch of a major migratory thoroughfare. A surprising diversity of bird species can be spotted in the spring and fall at the park. Summer and winter have their own unique residence. During the Great Backyard Bird Count the park will host various bird counting and watching activities. Join a ranger or participate on your own to count the species of the park. Be prepared for changeable winter weather!

Friday February 12, 2016
8:30am Meet the park biologist at the Painted Desert Visitor Center, convoy to backcountry area for a walk along riparian area most visitors don’t get to see. Be prepared for uneven ground, wear proper footwear, bring water, and sun protection.

2pm-3pm Meet a ranger at the riparian area across the road from Puerco Pueblo to watch the cottonwood trees and shrubs near the river. Be prepared for uneven ground, wear proper footwear, bring water, and sun protection. Bring your own chair, binoculars, spotting scopes, etc. You are responsible for personal gear.

Saturday February 13, 2016
9am-10am Meet a ranger at the riparian area across the road from Puerco Pueblo to watch the cottonwood trees and shrubs near the river. Be prepared for uneven ground, wear proper footwear, bring water, and sun protection. Bring your own chair, binoculars, spotting scopes, etc. You are responsible for personal gear.

3pm-4pm Meet a ranger at the Painted Desert Visitor Center and Plaza to count the species that hang around headquarters. Be prepared for uneven ground, wear proper footwear, bring water, and sun protection. Bring your own binoculars, spotting scopes, etc. You are responsible for personal gear.

If you would like to count on your own, pick up the instructions and forms for counting at the Rainbow Forest Museum or the Painted Desert Visitor Center, fill them out as you enjoy the park, and turn them in at either facility on your way out. Your findings count! We will use them to report to the official project cohosted by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Audubon Society, and Bird Studies Canada.

Great Backyard Bird Count http://gbbc.birdcount.org/