Mid-November 2020 brings us limited travel, damp gray days, and more time at home. Becoming a Project Feederwatch volunteer can be one way to battle feeling gloomy all winter long, November to April. Consider becoming a community scientist making bird observations as you look out your window. You will join over 20,000 Canadian and U.S. participants during this is kick-off week for Project Feederwatch: “You don’t even need a feeder! All you need is an area with plantings, habitat, water or food that attracts birds.”  

I spent time last weekend making sure my backyard habitat offered what winter birds need: food, water, and cover. I’ve rigged up a heated water dish, a squirrel-proofed seed feeder, and a nice big brush pile in my garden. Under the roof above a window, I’ve hung a heated hummingbird feeder and a thistle-feeder for finches.

Next, I visited the Project Feederwatch website and signed up – registering with $18 allows me to receive a helpful research kit with a color poster, calendar, and data sheets. I know I can expect 6 months of support with online tips, articles, and problem-solving ideas to thwart squirrels, house sparrows, potential disease transmission, and tricky bird ID information.

I’ve marked my calendar: I will do twice monthly observations on two consecutive days. I’ve printed hardcopy data forms to keep on my window sill, so I can easily tally the birds I see throughout the day, when I pass by the window and make a quick count.

I feel happy knowing that my observations will help researchers understand long term population trends, like distribution and abundance, for over 100 species. The project’s results are published in scientific journals and used to make on-the-ground management decisions for species at risk.

I know that my participation will help me become a better observer. I can quickly get ID help by using website learning tools. My backyard viewing will trigger my curiosity and bring delight during the long dark days of winter. Project Feedwatch is supported by Wild Birds Unlimited, and a visit to the Wenatchee store can be a next step to learn about backyard bird feeding.