Tweets,
I feel I need to comment on this. Yes CBC's are a scientific based project, however we must remember one thing...its volunteer based. I as many other researchers can attest to have run many such volunteer studies that need bodies out there counting. It can be tough to get people out and certain liberties are taken/excused to get people physically out there. It might sound crude, but it doesn't really matter to me if your strongly scientific in your principles or just want to get out birding or outdoors. The truth is you are still out there counting birds, and that is what really matters. Many compilers and I have been guilty of saying such things in the past, will use such catchy phrases as was quoted in the previous email to entice birders to participate.
In reality how many people would travel even 20 miles out of their way to count house sparrows, house finches, starlings etc.. But, if you can entice them that in their area there is this neat little sparrow patch that you might be able to pull out a savanna sparrow that is unusual on the count...well, now you've peaked somebody's interest. And in the process of peaking interests, they count other species as well. I view the total species as the fun part of getting bodies out there, the rarities in the grand scheme of things really don't matter for population trends. In the trends of the more usual species that are the useful scientific process. However, what birder among us isn't thrilled when we find an unusual species??
I say whatever your reason, just find a few days during the holiday season to get outside and help a few counts out! Its fun and a great excuse to bird some new or or old areas.


Scott Downes
downess at cwu.edu
Ellensburg WA

"If you love hotdogs you don't ask how they are made, but are grateful to receive one at a good ballgame"