Since we first learned of it two months ago, my daughter and I have been anxiously waiting for the upcoming Great Backyard Bird Count. During this event, Feb.17-20, people from all across the country will be tracking the number and types of birds they see in their areas. Scientists from the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology collect the information and use it to study migration trends, changes in number of species and habitat, and effects of climate variations and West Nile disease.

The project is now in its ninth year and has been a great success. Last year, thousands of people joined in.

I have been fascinated by birds for years. Through careful landscape planning and feeding techniques, I have been rewarded with an ever-increasing assortment of birds. Birds are entertaining, and the hobby can become addictive.

Though they would never admit it, my two teenagers enjoy our feathered friends nearly as much as I do. I look forward to my first bird count. Besides being something that I love to do, it is such a great opportunity to get involved. It’s fun and easy. Everyone has something to offer.

Wendy Bishop, Gray