I had tried to forward this email (see below) at the beginning of June from
the FL bird listserv, but apparently it did not post. I started to suspect
because of the lack of any responses, and it was confirmed to me recently
by Tom McNeil. As a consequence, I have been competing against myself to
see how many birds I can find in Washington County (TN) during June. Since
no one else knew about the challenge, I have been crushing it and i think I
have a good shot at second or third. Anyway, this may be something to
consider for next June? Still looking for Prothonotary Warbler, Prairie
Warbler, Bobwhite, and some others that have been difficult to find in the
county.
"Birders It's Time for the June Challenge!
Start Date June 1st Friday
This is a friendly competition. The goal
Is for every contestant to see as many species as possible in his or her
county between June 1 and June 30. Thank you Becky Ennels for these rules.
She started this contest.
1.Count only birds found in a county.
Explore your neighborhoods and find new birding places! You can do more
than 1 county but report each separately.
2.Each bird on your list must be seen not just heard. Be kind to the birds!
3.You will be competing with birders in your own county to see who has the
longest individual list. When you find something good share with others.
This will help them look for it.
Remember this is a friendly competition!
4.Any free flying bird is countable for the challenge but keep track of how
many ABA countable and non countable birds are on your list. Report them
Total number seen 1st
Number ABA countable 2nd
Number non countable
Here is how I would do it
100(90/10)
100 is the total birds I saw
90 ABA countable
10 non countable
If you see any exotic bird that is not ABA countable put on your non
countable list.
A mute swan in a city park is non countable.
5.Send your list to me by midnight July 1st. Results of last year can be
found on birdbrain.
New Challengers you should bird alot the 1st and last weeks of the month to
try to see late spring and early fall birds. Birders who don't want to go
birding alone you can go with friends or a group or organization. Have fun!"
Peace.
David Kirschke
Johnson City, TN
