Volunteer Training Workshop – Point Lepreau Bird Observatory

Every spring, there are days when thousands of scoter ducks, loons and eiders migrate by Point Lepreau EVERY HOUR! And we need more volunteers to help count them!

For 30 years, the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory has relied heavily on volunteer assistance to avoid any gaps in migration data collection. So, let us teach you all you need to know.

We’re offering a two-hour workshop on identifying, counting and recording seabirds and sea ducks that migrate passed Point Lepreau.

The presentation will start with instruction on how to properly record field notes and fill out PLBO field forms. We will then discuss methods used to count birds in flight, as well as “parked” birds, including mixed species flocks. Effective communication will also be discussed.
The remainder of the presentation will explore the in-flight identification of:
Scoters, Eiders, Loons, Cormorants, Geese, Alcids, Grebes …and other species seen at the point!

Spring migration monitoring takes place from March 15 to May 9.
Fall migration monitoring takes place from September 17 to November 18.

Volunteers can sign up to help during the morning or the afternoon count sessions, which are 4 hours in length.

Security Clearance Required to Work as a Volunteer:
The access road to the PLBO passes through property owned and controlled by NB Power’s Point Lepreau nuclear generating station. Therefore, anyone visiting PLBO must have security clearance in advance. We’ll fill you in on all of those details at the workshop.

Delicious snacks and refreshments will be served.

This project is supported with funds provided through the Canadian Wildlife Service, the NB Wildlife Trust Fund and the NB Environmental Trust Fund.

To learn more about the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory, check out our website: https://saintjohnnaturalistsclub.org/plbo/

Register Now: