#35 Field Tip: Rescuing an Injured Bird

If you find an injured bird contact your local or nearest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. They will be able to care for the bird and release it when it is healthy.

Sadly this Peregrine Falcon that was hit by a vehicle. In spite of surgery to his wing he was unable to make a full recovery, and he is now part of a WRC educational program.

Note, many baby birds are not in need of any help. See June 2010 Tip #1 on “Baby Birds Leave Them Be.”

photo © adrian binns

#34 Conservation Tip: Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) engages people of all ages to count birds in their local community. Birders of many skill levels, from beginning to advanced, are encouraged to join in this annual 4-day event, which provides important real-time data of bird populations and locations throughout North America.

Count your backyard feeder, or gather friends together to explore a favorite birding locale. The GBBC provides an opportunity for students and community groups to organize educational programs or fundraising around the event, while making an important contribution to scientific databases.

The 2011 GBBC takes place Friday February 18 through Monday, February 21 - you can count for as little as 15 minutes, or many hours for each of the 4 days. It’s free, fun and helps the birds! For more details, go to the GBBC website: www.birdsource.org/gbbc/

photo © adrian binns

#33 Backyard Tip: Create a Wildlife Habitat

Your backyard will become a haven for wildlife if it contains the 4 essentials that all animals need: water, food, cover, and nesting places.

Install a birdbath or small pond to provide water for drinking and bathing.

Plant as much native vegetation as possible, including trees, shrubs and perennials that produce berries, nuts and seeds. Bird feeders can supplement native plants. Native plants can also provide cover for protection against predators and the elements. Add brush piles and rocks for additional options. 

Birdhouses provide safe places for cavity nesting birds to raise their young.

Your local Audubon chapter or National Wildlife Federation  are among the many organizations that can provide additional details about creating wildlife habitats. Doing so will provide a lifetime of enjoyment for yourself, and a critical benefit for wildlife.

photo © adrian binns

#32 Optics Tip: Keep your Optics Clean

Always keep your optics clean and dry while out birding. Use a soft, oil-free brush - like the Nikon lens pen - to remove dust. Then wipe glass surface gently with a dry, lint-free, lens cloth to remove smudges and fingerprints. You may use a soft cloth to wipe the body of the binoculars, but do not wipe the glass surface afterwards, as it may scratch.

photo © adrian binns