Breeding Bird Surveys

[Charles Hundertmark]

In the fall 2025 "President's Message" in Colorado Birds, I reported that the program that houses the USGS Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) was threatened with massive cuts. Protests to the cuts lodged by birders and others resulted in a reduction of those cuts allowing the BBS program to continue. Thanks to those of you who spoke out.

This month David Suddjian, who coordinates the BBS program in Colorado is reaching out for volunteers to cover routes in the state that do not have a counter. I urge birders to consider adopting one or more BBS routes. BBS routes are a great way to apply your birding skills and build your knowledge of Colorado birds. Last year, I adopted to 3 BBS routes, and I plan to conduct those counts again this year.

Chuck Hundertmark

Lafayette, CO