Using a “point count survey,” 2-3 volunteers visit specific points on the land together and count every bird that’s seen or heard within five-minute intervals, recording the total number and species of birds observed. These point count surveys typically take place during the spring migration, April-June, and the fall migration, September-October, with an additional survey of overwintering birds occurring in January.
Preliminary analysis of data collected in recent years suggests local bird populations are indeed resilient and capable of rebounding after wildfire events, such as the Bond and Silverado fires of 2020. Though team members on this project acknowledge that trends may not materialize for more than a decade, these surveys and habitat restoration projects create a baseline for future data and help the IRC team conceptualize the impact of their rehabilitation and enhancement efforts.
To learn more about bird monitoring and restoration efforts, visit IRConservancy.org, LetsGoOutside.org or follow the Landmarks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.