Calling N.H. birders: Help N.H. Audubon identify the birds in your backyard this weekend
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'This allows us to look at long-term trends in winter bird populations all across the state and get a snapshot of what is happening here in New Hampshire during the winter, with regards to our bird communities,' said McCullough.
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So why have robins and bluebirds decided to stick around for the winter? Warmer winter temperatures driven by climate change are one reason, according to McCulloch.
'Even a few degrees in temperature can be a big difference for birds,' she said.
Another reason for the shift is that landscaping practices have changed: More people are planting fruit-producing trees like crab apple and winterberry that provide food for those species during the winter, according to McCulloch.
McCullough said the long-term data helps show a clearer picture of which bird species are increasing or decreasing in the state. And, she said, 'It's a great opportunity for people to get connected to nature.'
About 1,500 people participated in the survey last year. Here are the top five birds they observed:
American Goldfinch (9,925 birds counted)
Dark-eyed Junco (9,665 birds counted)
Mourning Dove (4,695 birds counted)
Black-capped Chickadee (4,395 birds counted)
Blue Jay (4,373 birds counted)
Information about how to participate in the online survey is available on the NH Audubon website, which also includes tips on identifying different birds and commonly confused birds.
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A version of this story first appeared in Globe NH | Morning Report, our free newsletter focused on the news you need to know about New Hampshire, including great coverage from the Boston Globe and links to interesting articles from other places. If you'd like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday,
Amanda Gokee can be reached at
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