Attracting Hummingbirds

Lesson 2: KEEPING BOTH YOU AND YOUR HUMMERS HAPPY

PROJECT FEEDERWATCH

Project FeederWatch is an opportunity for people like you to get involved with the science of birds! The project is operated by the non-profit organization, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, in partnership with the National Audubon Society, Bird Studies Canada, and Canadian Nature Federation.

To participate in the project, you contribute $15 per year (which covers the cost of a research kit that you will receive, along with a newsletter.) Participant fees pay almost entirely for the project!

The data received from people like you help scientists to gather much valuable information, such as the population of birds in specific areas, what factors attract certain species, and how disease might be spread between birds visiting feeders. Your participation can assist in determining if a certain type of bird needs to be placed on the endangered species list or allow scientists to present proof when appealing to government officials about circumstances that are dangerous to birds.

No special skills are needed. You simply observe your feeders two consecutive days once every two weeks and offer a count of the bird species you see. Of course, this project applies to other types of birds as well as hummingbirds.

The project is only conducted in the winter, so it is an especially great activity for those who live in the southern states where hummingbirds may visit year-round. For the rest, you might see vagrant hummers who are lost or lingering a bit too long in winter, and this can help scientists to determine if anything can be done to keep these hummers going in a safer direction.

Data from Project FeederWatch is regularly published in scientific journals. You can be part of science without ever having to set foot on a university campus! Check the accompanying link for information on how to sign up. Winter may already be here, but you can sign up at any time.

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