I disagree with Bruce, even though I use the codes to enter my data in Avisys
on a PDA (hand held devices) or to make field notes and can create them
pretty fast, but going backwards takes me more time than it takes someone to write
the bird's name out on a keyboard. Also, frequently people use four letter
codes for local birding areas LRGV, to list one, which is even a bigger problem
when you are not familiar with the area. LRGV= Lower Rio Grande Valley Or
people do not know how to form them correctly which takes time to figure out
what they are talking about. And there is the issue of duplicate four letter
codes for different birds.

So as they taught in writing class -- You are trying to communicate with the
most number of people when you write. So the issue is are you concerned about
communicating with the most number of readers and your reader or do you want
to communicate with a limited audience?

IMHO ;-)

Great birding and find that next lifer,

John (One of Birders2)
John + Irma = 2, we are birders, too.

John C. LeVine Birders2 at aol.com Los Angeles, CA

Perhaps a generation wiser than ours will one day again
hear the voice of nature in the wind.
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from The Neanderthal's Necklace by Juan Luis Arsuaga