All across North America, thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds
participate in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's citizen-science projects.
These citizen scientists represent the world's largest research team.
HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE TO BE A CITIZEN SCIENTIST?
Participating in our citizen-science projects can be as easy as glancing
at your backyard bird feeder and recording what you see. Experienced birders
can "get out in the field" by gathering data about the relationship
between habitat characteristics and forest bird nesting success. There's
a citizen-science project for every skill level and time commitment.
Some bird species are showing significant population declines, some are
expanding their ranges, and others are exhibiting signs of disease. The
information you collect will be combined with reports from other citizen
scientists to determine population trends and to inform conservation efforts.
Every bird that is reported, regardless of its beauty or ubiquity, is
important.
Every citizen scientist who submits data makes a difference!
WHAT HAS CITIZEN SCIENCE ACCOMPLISHED SO FAR?
Results from citizen-science projects are already being applied to bird
conservation efforts, including the North American Bird Conservation Plan.
Citizen science also has led to the purchase of land that hosts breeding
populations of several declining species. Just as important, citizen scientists
become better educated about birds and conservation, making them more
effective stewards within their own communities.
