Thanks to RBA Member David Marsh for submitting the following:
Montezuma Christmas Bird Count
Anyone wishing to participate should contact the compiler.
The CBC is Monday, December 15th
Compiler: Chris Lajewski, 1-315-365-3580 or clajewski@audubon.org.
Montezuma Wetland Complex 2014/2015 Winter Raptor Survey
Surveys will be conducted weekly, generally on Wednesdays, however there occasionally will be some exceptions.
Canvasbacks in flight – Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge © D. Sherony
We need help from experienced birders and veteran surveyors who are able to identify raptors that frequent our area. If you are new to birding, you will be paired with those who have experience, and we can certainly use your help spotting birds and recording data.
While our efforts are first directed toward providing accurate raptor counts for use by the Refuge and DEC, we all will sharpen our ID skills, see parts of the Refuge that are closed to the public, learn more about how the Complex attracts raptors in winter, and have some fun along the way as well.
Surveys are conducted between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunset. We meet at the Montezuma NW Refuge office at designated times to receive a briefing, pick up materials for the survey, and occasionally sample some cookies a thoughtful surveyor has provided. Surveyors will return to the office after completion of the survey to turn in data and exchange information about experiences. The meeting times for November and December are:
Wednesday, Nov. 19, meet at 3:25 pm
Wednesday, Nov. 26, meet at 3:20 pm
Wednesday, Dec. 3, meet at 3:15 pm
Wednesday, Dec. 10, meet at 3:15 pm
Wednesday, Dec. 17, meet at 3:20 pm
Tuesday, Dec. 23, meet at 3:20 pm
Tuesday, Dec. 30, meet at 3:25 pm
Meeting times beyond those listed above will be announced around December 15. If you wish to participate or have questions, please contact me, David Marsh, at dsmlmm@frontiernet.net, 585-396-2170, or, Linda Ziemba, at 1-315-568-5987, linda_ziemba@fws.gov.
