Nearly 20 bird enthusiasts gathered at Fountain Creek Regional Park for the annual winter bird count, collecting important data on bird populations. Conducted three times a year since 1991, these counts help understand migration patterns and habitat needs. The dedicated volunteers split into teams and spent hours identifying and counting the birds they observed.
The volunteers, ranging from experienced bird counters to a 16-year-old aspiring environmental scientist, shared a love for nature and the sense of community that birding provides. John Drummond, an experienced ornithologist, emphasized the decline in bird populations over the years due to climate change and habitat loss. Despite these challenges, the passion for birding and conservation efforts remain strong.
Coen Kliewer, the young participant, found solace in birding during the pandemic and now dreams of a career in animal or environmental science. The volunteers wrapped up their morning with smiles and shared stories of the birds they encountered, reflecting on the satisfaction of collecting these experiences. The bird count not only provides valuable data but also fosters a sense of connection to nature and to each other within the birding community.
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Photo credit gazette.com