This February 14th through 17th is the 17th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count all across the world. Started in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, they were the first to develop an online science experiment where people from all over the world can take part in. 

For four days, you would count the birds you see in your backyard and document your findings on The Great Bird Count's website. You do not have to do all 4 days and you only need to participate for as little as 15 minutes. Last year, over 100,000 people participated and counted millions of birds of various species. 

So, what is the purpose for these experiments? What is to be achieved from everyone participating is seeing how weather influences bird population, note patterns in migration, see the influences of viruses on bird population, and see the variety of birds across the world.

Be apart of The Great Bird Count and help expand our understanding of birds! Maybe you will see some Long Island birds like warblers, hawks, owls, herons, or Ibis. Document and share!

Be sure to continue to bird watch at some of the great locations below!

• Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island - Oakdale
• Harrison Pond Town Park - Kings Park
• Nissequoge River State Park - Kings Park
• Hallock State Park Preserve - Wading River
• Robert Cushman Murphy Country Park - Manorville
• Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve - Merrick
• Twin Lakes Preserve - Wantagh
• Quogue Wildlife Refuge - Quogue
• Camp Hero State Park - Montauk

Will you be participating in The Great Bird Count? Where do you like to bird watch? Tell us in the comments below!