Green Daily

If you enjoy birdwatching or even just need a good reason to get outside, consider the Great Backyard Bird Count which takes place February 13-16. In the midst of the Valentine plans for the weekend, take a few minutes to look for some birds.

The bird count helps scientists to determine where different bird varieties have traveled for the winter, as well as getting a general population count. You can watch birds at a park, on a nature hike or, in your own backyard. The Great Backyard Bird Count has a checklist you can use to count the birds you see. Make sure to read the instructions - you don't count every bird you see, only the number in the largest group of one type of bird. So if you see four cardinals in the morning and three in the afternoon, you only report four cardinals to make sure you aren't counting the same birds over and over again.

A quick trip to the library or used bookstore might help you find a simple bird identification book. If you want to get the kids involved, the Great Backyard Bird Count has a ton of birdwatching activities for kids. And, when it's all over you can even print up a participation certificate for your family (on scrap paper of course).

I guess I'd better go finish fixing my birdhouse so I can put it back into commission for the neighborhood.

[Via Eco Child's Play]