Great Backyard Bird Count returns Feb. 16-19

The Great Backyard Bird Count is a way for participants to learn about the bird populations that can be found in the region and also an event that helps scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations.

To identify the birds locally, Virginia State Parks officials recommend that participants use the Merlin Bird ID app, available for download on smart phones or tablets. Participants also may use the eBird Mobile app to enter bird sightings. Participants are asked to note all the birds they see during a 15-minute period during one of the four days.

State parks that are hosting events during the Great Backyard Bird Count include: • Pocahontas, Chesterfield; • Bear Creek Lake, Cumberland;• Caledon, King George;• Claytor Lake, Dublin;• Hungry Mother, Marion;• Mason Neck, Lorton; • Natural Tunnel, Duffield; • New River Trail, Max Meadows; • Powhatan, Powhatan.