Birding

Avian Quiz Answer – Jan 7, 2011

January 10, 2011 by Jory 4 Comments

QUIZ ANSWER

Too many zeros.  I cannot count.

You write, you edit, and you edit, and you edit.  And still something gets through that is an error.  I have now learned to respect journalists a great deal more.  Writing on deadline, with many facts.  Kudos to them, a Bronx cheer for me.

And so, I apologize.  50,000.  Not 50,000,000.  111, not 108.

This year is the 111th Christmas Bird Count in the ABA area.

Column A shows some of the data for the first CBC, in 1900.

Column B shows some of the data for last year’s CBC, in 2010.

The 4 comparative items are:

1. Count circles: The first CBC had 25 count circles.  Last year there were more than 2,000 count circles.

2. Miles, diameter of each circle: Exactly 15 miles

3. Number of years that the CBC has been done

4. Total number of individuals participating: The first CBC has about 27 individuals participating in the count.  Last year there were over 50,000 individuals participating.  Not 50 million.

BONUS ANSWER

I have tried many sources to determine the highest number of species in one CBC.  This seems to be the best I can determine.  250 species in 2005 in Texas.  I have seen this referenced in at least two places.  Does anyone have more info on this?

Also check out Audubon’s website on the CBC, which has great info on the CBC’s.

Written by Jory
Jory's first field guide-identified bird was a Northern Cardinal. This turned out to be his gateway drug into birding. In 2007 Jory became the least accomplished birder to see 300 birds in New York State in one year. He has birded the world over but maintains his birding "beginner mind", of which he is inordinately proud. Just ask him. Jory is the 10,000 Birds Avian Quizmaster, coming up with ever more diabolical ways to stump his legion of devoted fans. He lives with his wife and the possessions of his children just outside of Albany NY.