Land Protection…It’s for the Birds!

The first season of the NYS Breeding Bird Atlas III (2020-2024) is nearly over! The atlas is conducted every 20 years, by the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation and Cornell Lab of Ornithology. It assesses the status of bird species in the state, specifically breeding activity.

Much of the data is collected by "citizen science" volunteers and submitted via the eBird phone app (Cornell Lab of Ornithology). Birdwatchers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate, including beginners!

During this year’s atlas, David Diaz, OLT’s Director of Land Protection, has been assigned the “Cooperstown East” breeding bird block. David and others identified 102 species with possible, probable, or confirmed breeding status. With four more years to go, even more species will be added!

Highlights from this Season:

Bobolink, Savannah Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Pine Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, American Kestrel, Hairy Woodpecker, Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Purple Finch and White-Throated Sparrow.

NYS Breeding Bird Atlas III:
https://ebird.org/atlasny/home

NYS Breeding Bird Atlas III Steering Committee:

FUN FACT: David has participated in a birding competition called the World Series of Birding, six times.