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Join the Breeding Bird Census 
by KARL E. BARTEL 
A census of the number of breeding birds in Illinois has intriguing possi- 
bilities, and the Illinois Audubon Society would like to encourage more 
birders to take part in the 1967 breeding bird census. A well-done and 
earefully compiled census will help record variations in the number of 
birds inhabiting a particular area. These variations can be the result 
of changes in land use or widespread applications of pesticides. 
Ideally, it would be helpful to have at least one observer for each 
one-degree block of latitude and longitude, and anyone interested in 
making the breeding bird survey a success — particularly in the southern 
half of the state — should contact the Illinois State Coordinator, Mr. Peter 
Dring, P.O. Box 92, Willow Springs, Illinois 60480. 
The census procedure is simple. The census taker covers an assigned 
route once each summer in the following manner: Begin one-half hour 
before sunrise; make 50 stops one-half mile apart, and count all birds 
heard at each stop or seen within one-fourth mile during a 3-minute 
watching and listening period. Sample urban and suburban areas as well 
as rural and wilderness areas. Do not avoid populated areas nor should 
you purposely include favorite birding localities. 
DIRECTIONS FOR RUNNING ROUTES 
When to Observe: Any time during June; second and third weeks are 
best. Do not take a census later than July 10. 
Equipment: Clip board, pencils, forms supplied by the Migratory Bird 
Population Station, map, binoculars, watch with second hand, 
thermometer. 
Weather: The census should be run under the best conditions possible. 
The visibility should be good with no precipitation and a wind of 
less than 8 mph. If you can walk faster than the wind is blowing, 
so much the better. 
Timing: Be at the starting point at least 5 minutes before starting time 
to record weather and speedometer reading. Start the census 30 
minutes before official sunrise. 
Procedure: Drive 0.5 mile to the first stop. If this stop is dangerous, stop 
may be moved 0.1 mile forward or back. Since speedometers will 
vary, always record a convenient landmark such as “100 feet north 
of yellow-brick house” or “under high-power line.” This is so that 
another observer may stop at the same spot in subsequent years, 
if you can’t make it. 
Stop, look and listen for exactly 3 minutes at each stop. Record 
the number and species seen and heard within 1/4 mile in all direc- 
tions. Then move to the next stop. Make a total of 50 stops. Allow 
2 minutes’ driving time between stops. The entire route should 
take about 4 hours. 
What Birds to Count: Count all birds including Rock Doves. Do not record 
any birds when car is in motion. 
Reporting Results: Regular forms are furnished for all participants. The 
Migratory Bird Populations Station to whom the forms are sent will 
later send each participant a summary of all lists made in Illinois. 
Last year 15 areas were covered in Illinois. This year there is a great 
need for more participants in more areas. 
