Join hike leader Becky Heck for the Great Backyard Bird Count which is a citizen science initiative that takes place over four days in February. The initiative, a collaboration between Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada, uses the data to better understand the global populations of birds. This year our field trip will take place on Saturday, February 14, where you can show your “love” for birds by signing up and participating.

The hike will cover three sites on the northeast side of the city. The first is Hazel Landing Park, a mixed woodland and grassland area where the prairies could be good for hawks and sparrows. The next stop will be Prather Park, another mixed habitat location where woodland birds will be sought. And finally, the caravan will go to Founders Park which has a pond and more grasslands.

The event will run from 8:30 am to 11:00 am. Participants will meet at Hazel Landing Park located at 10601 Hazel Dell Pkwy, Carmel, IN 46033. Be sure to dress for the weather.

There is a limit of 10 participants, and ABAS members will get priority until January 14. Non-members should sign up early as they will be taken first come, first serve. To sign up, please email Laurie Voss at laurievoss25@gmail.com. Please include your phone number when emailing.

What: Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC)

When: Saturday, February 14 from 8:30 am to 11:00 am

Where: Hazel Landing Park — 10601 Hazel Dell Pkwy, Carmel, IN 46033

Prather Park — 12575 River Rd, Carmel, IN 46033

Founders Park — 11675 Hazel Dell Pkwy, Carmel, IN 46033