Female Purple Martin by Chris Perry
On May 11, 2024, we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, a time to raise awareness of the remarkable journeys of migratory birds. This day aligns with our annual Clallam County Birdathon where we meticulously count birds across the county while gaining valuable insights into the avian inhabitants of the Olympic Peninsula.
Birdathon raises funds for essential OPAS operations that include the Harlequin Happenings newsletter, modest stipends to speakers, liability insurance for participants on field trips and activities, bird monitoring, a new in 2024 high school scholarship program, our BirdSafe project to reduce window strikes at Peninsula College, and conservation advocacy.
This year, the theme for World Migratory Bird Day underscores the significance of insects for migratory birds. The dwindling insect populations, primarily due to pesticides and habitat destruction, pose a severe threat to insectivorous birds. These birds depend on energy from protein-rich insects being available at the right times to feed chicks and fuel migratory flights.
In early May, OPAS members will receive a Birdathon letter, inviting them to contribute through donations or pledges for the count. Regardless of your location in Clallam County on May 11, your bird count is invaluable. Whether you spend the entire day observing, dedicate an hour or two to counting, or simply monitor the birds in your own backyard feeders, every observation matters – even the common sparrows and hummingbirds hold significance.
Participants can record their observations using the tally sheet provided or through eBird. If you haven't already, consider setting up an eBird account to streamline your data entry process. Moreover, you can garner support by securing sponsors for your count, which will aid OPAS and River Center programs. Alternatively, you have the option to sponsor other counters, further allowing them to represent your contribution during the bird tally.
Together, let us celebrate the marvel of migratory birds and work towards preserving their habitats and food sources for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of this vital cause.