The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) program is about to get underway and volunteers are needed. It's a fun and free way to participate in a wonderful environmental program anywhere in the United States. Anyone from beginners to experts can take part in this activity, whether it is done in a backyard, school playground, empty city field or wooded forest. Don't forget to tell your local schools about this program - it's an easy way to get students involved with a hands-on activity to help the environment and to teach about science and nature.

This year's GBBC dates are Feb 16th through 19th, 2007. You can find more information at birdsource.org.

Participants can download their checklists to this site and check for live updates on the bird species being counted and categorized in their own area. Tips on identifying birds can be found there as well, and excellent bird information can also be located within the avian section of Animal Bytes.

Happy birding!