For example, in the northern peninsula of Michigan, snow cover exceeded 24 inches, and a lone robin was reported. In central and southern parts of the state, where snow cover was five inches or less, robins were everywhere. The data entry forms at the GBBC web site will ask participants to provide information about snow cover in their area. Cornell Lab and Audubon researchers emphasize that every observation of every bird seen is important, no matter how common the species. It fact, the most common birds often demonstrate the most important patterns.
Participants also can help follow up on an emerging conservation success story.
American and Canadian citizens alike can help scientists monitor the health and abundance of this once-endangered bird with an immediacy and breadth never before possible. Thanks to support from Ford Motor Company and Wild Birds Unlimited, exclusive sponsors of the GBBC, the web site features special pages that provide information about Bald Eagles, including how to distinguish them from similar-looking species. Directions are provided at the site. Results, in the form of colorful maps and charts, are available at the web site for all to view as quickly as reports arrive over the Internet. Participation in the count is free, and no registration is necessary.