Audubon Launches New Community Science Program, Calls for Volunteers
Birds provide important information about our changing climate.
NEW YORK—Today, National Audubon Society launched Climate Watch, a new community science program designed to better understand how birds are impacted by our warming planet. The first public survey period runs from May 15 to June 15.
“Climate Watch volunteers and the data they collect are critical to helping us understand how birds are currently reacting to changes in climate. Audubon’s 2014 research revealed that about half of all bird species in the United States are at risk of worsening conditions in the places they live if climate change continues at the current pace,” said Dr. Brooke Bateman, senior climate scientist at National Audubon Society.
“Climate Watch is a way to test that research and provide key information about what help birds may need right now as they experience climate change.”
Climate Watch is focused on bluebirds and nuthatches, two types of birds that are anticipated to experience climatic changes in the places they live and can also be found across the country. More specifically, the program is counting Eastern Bluebirds, Mountain Bluebirds, and Western Bluebirds, and Brown-headed Nuthatches, Pygmy Nuthatches, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and White-breasted Nuthatches. In addition to the summer survey period (May 15 to June 15) there is also a winter survey period from January 15 to February 15.
More information on Climate Watch:
- Climate Watch volunteers can learn more at www.audubon.org/climate-watch.
- Participants newer to birding or community science can reach out to their local Climate Watch Coordinator and find out more about how to volunteer at https://www.audubon.org/features/esri-climate-watch.
- Birders with an eBird account and who have GIS mapping skills can claim their Climate Watch Square (URL) and get started on their own.
- If you are interested in engaging your local birding community, consider signing up to serve as a Climate Watch coordinator.
- Have more questions? Visit Audubon’s Climate Watch FAQ.
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using, science, advocacy, education and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Learn more how to help at www.audubon.org and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @audubonsociety.
Contact: media@audubon.org, (212) 979-3100.