Submission of New Records 



Contributors are asked to submit records in one of two formats. 



1. Quarter Latilong Bird Lists: Ttnis is a list of bird species observed within a quarter 

 latllong (QLL). If there were several birding trips within a single QLL the sightings from 

 each trip should be summarized into a single master list for that QLL. For each species 

 recorded, list the highest status observed ("B" greater than "b" greater than "t") and then 

 the most recent observation date. Make one list per QLL in taxonomic (Field Guide) 

 order. For full-page form, see p.115. 



In areas where you live or that you frequent each year we would like a single master 

 QLL list annually. If the status is listed as "B", briefly state the criteria used (i.e., nest, 

 dependent young, etc.). A brief location description is requested (i.e.. Bean Lake, Long 

 Pine Hills, Chinook, Hwy 200, 10 miles west of Simms, etc.). 



2. Single Observations (rare, out of range, and SI species) 



These sightings require thorough, detailed descriptions. It will be best to use the 

 Rare Bird Report Form found in Appendix E, however, any report format with sufficient 

 information will do. Fill in the information only for items that you actually observed. Do 

 not fill in items you felt you should have seen but did not. It is the exception where all 

 possible criteria are seen. Complete the report as soon as possible following the 

 observation while your impressions are fresh. Please submit any drawings or 

 photographs; they will become part of the permanent record unless return is requested. 

 All rare and out-of-range sightings are submitted to the verification committee. They 

 can only judge your sighting based on your report. "It looked just like the picture in the 

 book" won't pass. 



Please submit individual records and individual QLL lists as soon after the 

 observations as possible. For QLLs that you visit more than once, send in a master 

 QLL list annually. New records will be added to the Montana Bird Distribution database 

 on a regular schedule. This will allow for periodic updates and queries on species or 

 selected geographic areas. It will also greatly facilitate producing the next edition. 



We plan development of a computer software program that will permit data entry of 

 field sightings by observers with access to personal computers. This will permit 

 observers to send in their observations via diskette. Use of this method of 

 recordkeeping will significantly reduce data entry time at the central database. We 

 intend to design the program so that observers will be able to access and display their 

 own data. All observers with access to personal computers are encouraged to use this 

 method when it becomes available. 



Mail all records to: 



Montana Bird Distribution Update 

 Montana Natural Heritage Program 

 1515 East Sixth Avenue 

 Helena, MT 59620 



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