Are you looking for something different to do this spring? Do you enjoy watching wildlife? What are your thoughts about birdwatching? This bird challenge may be for you!
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO), and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) invite both new and experienced birders to participate in the first-ever Missouri Birding Challenge from May 1 to 15!
The Challenge
Missouri Birding Challenge participants will compete alone or on a team in different birding categories based on their ages, birding experience, and comfort levels. Bird watchers will use eBird to record their lists of birds identified in public natural areas around Missouri or even in their backyards.
Once participants complete a category, they will be entered into a drawing for fun, bird-related prizes such as binoculars and gift cards.
Registration?
There is a fee of $10-$25 per person or team, depending on the category. The fees support migratory bird conservation efforts.
Learn more about the Challenge and related topics at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/birdwatching/missouri-birding-challenge. The complete list of rules for this challenge will be released in the coming weeks. Registration will be open through the webpage from April 1 to 30.
Helpful Webinars
MDC will not leave you uneducated. They have planned several bird webinars for your benefit:
- Introduction and Benefits to Birding with MDC Ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre – Thursday, January 16, 6-7 p.m. Register in advance at mdc.webex.com/weblink/register/r490a71ae00c5a656f616921335bbe93d
- eBird and Citizen Science with USFWS Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick – Thursday, February 13, 6-7 p.m. Register in advance at mdc.webex.com/weblink/register/r1cfd388dfa07ae9c2a2a2a2e17783cc9
- Missouri Birds and Habitats with USFWS Ornithologist Sarah Kendrick – Thursday, March 6, 6-7 p.m. Register in advance at mdc.webex.com/weblink/register/r8e00480b27a066090d833f8f953298a6
- The Full Annual Cycle of Bird Conservation with MDC Ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre — Thursday, April 3, 6-7 p.m. Register in advance atmdc.webex.com/weblink/register/rbef953b3747d347adfd98137ee461694
- Seven Simple Actions to Help Birds at Home with Dana Ripper of the Missouri River Bird Observatory, Thursday, May 1, 6-7 p.m. Register in advance at mdc.webex.com/weblink/register/r1d047279e4ce9428de97c3c38ded815a
MDC wants to make this a learning experience for all in the state.
