list, Or Concern species now appearing on the list which are 
doubtfully included. Details of unusual records are also needed as 
substantiating data for inclusion with the count report as submitted 
to Audubon Field Notes (now, American Birds) and the Illinois 
Audubon Bulletin. Whenever possible, unusual ‘‘finds’’ should be 
checked on following days by additional observers. 
Hypothetical List 
In reading over any Christmas Bird Count list, you'll probably 
encounter some records which, for one reason or another, will set 
you wondering. These species have been reported only once, and 
the records are exceptional, considering their reported winter 
ranges. I’ve gone out on a limb and placed on the ‘‘hypothetical 
list’’ nine species whose winter occurrence in this region should, | 
think, be considered doubtful until further information is at hand. | 
imagine that some of these records are okay; but without any 
evidence except a bare listing with no details, | think they are 
properly to be questioned. This list is of importance, of course, only 
in terms of our long-term count records, since the species have 
already been published with the count reports. 
i. STANDARDIZATION OF COVERAGE 
ib 
Increasing accuracy in recording numbers. 
It is difficult to standardize techniques of counting and coverage so 
that annual variations in numbers reported will reflect actual dif- 
ferences in winter populations. A few things can be suggested, 
however, which might increase accuracy of counts: (a) Observers 
should be encouraged to record numbers on the spot rather than 
waiting until evening and estimating, (b) Known large concentra- 
tions of birds, such as the Starlings and House Sparrows and the 
total duck flock on the lake, could be checked and carefully 
estimated a few days prior to the count date. 
Covering same areas each year. 
(a) Once we get the areas lined up, we should strive to keep 
coverage more or less uniform from year to year — attempt always 
to cover the same general areas and keep number of hours spent in 
the field as constant as possible. 
(b) Whoever is in charge of arrangements should contact possible 
participants well in advance in order to have a definite idea of the 
number of observers who will be on hand. 
(c) Probably at least a week prior to the count date, an organization 
meeting should be held at which territories are definitely assigned. 
(d) Wherever possible, observers should attempt to spend some time 
in the field before the count day to determine where the concen- 
trations of birds in their territory are located and also to spot less 
common species. 
