Annual bird count to be held at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Date: December 15, 2011
Contact: Valerie Naylor, 701-623-4466

Annual Bird Count to be Held at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park welcomes volunteers to participate in the nationwide Audubon Christmas Bird Count.

The Medora Area Count will take place on Sunday, December 18.Volunteers wishing to take part should meet at the South Unit Visitor Center at 8:00 a.m. MST. Any participants arriving later in the day should stop by the South Unit Visitor Center for guidance.

The North Unit Count will be held on Monday, December 19. Volunteers should meet at the North Unit Visitor Center at 9:00 a.m. CST. Those wishing to volunteer for the North Unit Count should call Superintendent Valerie Naylor at 701-623-4730 x3409 in advance.

The annual event, now in its 112^th year, is the world's longest-running citizen science event. Information gathered during the CBC helps scientists learn more about how birds are faring throughout North America.

"The bird count is enjoyable for those new to birding as well as experienced birders," said Naylor. "Everyone is encouraged to participate. Beginners can learn from experienced birders and those keeping annual bird checklists can add onto them. This is a fun event, and we hope many people will join us to kick off the winter season in the park."

The areas to be covered encompass a 7 ½-mile radius around Medora, North Dakota and a 7 ½- mile radius from the North Unit Visitor Center. Before going out into the field, observers will be assigned to teams and survey areas to drive and walk these 177-square-mile sections to record bird sightings. This will be the 35th year for the Medora Count and 30^th year for the North Unit area.A total of 67 species have been sighted during the Medora Counts and 60 species for the North Unit Counts, including many that can only be found here in the winter.

Birders should bring their own binoculars, field guides, and warm clothing. Hot drinks will be provided at the South Unit Visitor Center. The event is free courtesy of the Theodore Roosevelt Nature and History Association, the park's non-profit partner organization. For further information, contact the park at 701-623-4466.