Date: 12/19/07
Contact: Margie Klein
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3502

'TIS THE SEASON FOR COUNTING BIRDS IN SOUTHERN NEVADA

The National Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count is currently under way in locations across the country and even right here in Clark County. The count began on Dec. 14 and will run through Jan. 5, 2008, giving birders across the country the chance to participate. This year marks the event’s 108th anniversary.

“This bird count helps scientists to monitor the location and the population of various bird species at this given time. It is an important source of information about the birds’ distribution and status, information that will help in the conservation of our avian friends,” said Margie Klein, wildlife educator with the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

With data that covers more than a century, it is possible for scientists and wildlife biologists to see the long-term changes and trends in bird populations. Those changes could be due to climate, environmental events, and other factors. The Red Rock Audubon Society, the organization’s local chapter, will be having several birding field trips during the length of the bird count. Field trip destinations include Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the Muddy River, Henderson, and Pahranaghat National Wildlife Refuge. For more information about the Christmas Bird Count in Southern Nevada check out the Web at www.redrockaudubon.org.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.