Oak Hill, WV (WOAY) Are you looking to have some fun in the name of scientific research?
The National Audubon Society is seeking volunteers of all ages and experience levels to participate in this year’s Christmas Bird Count.
Volunteers can spend as much time as they choose on Saturday, December 20, following certain routes and areas within the Greater Oak Hill Circle, counting every bird they see or hear.
Counters will cover a 7.5-mile radius from the intersection of Lochgelly Rd, Summerlee Rd, and Byrnside St in Oak Hill, scouting territory between Beckwith to Mount Hope, and Mossy to Cunard.
To avoid counting the same bird more than once, volunteers must appoint survey routes with the circle count compiler before the event.
The collected data will be added to results from thousands of other counts across the us and some countries in the western hemisphere.
Field routes and destinations are available, and there is a volunteer field guide to help out new bird count volunteers.
Nocturnal counts and owl watching is also an option, and yard feeder counters are also welcome.
Anyone wanting to volunteer must register in advance.
When signing up, be sure to let organizers know what your favorite flavor of pie is, as there will be a social following the count, with pie and warm drinks taking place in Mount Hope from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
To join the count, contact circle compiler Rachel Davis by sending an email to rachel@birding-wv.com or calling (304)880-8059.
Visit birding-wv.com for further details about the count and what to expect.
