BIRDWATCHERS ARE SOUGHT FOR SURVEY

Cape Girardeau county residents are asked to participate in a national survey of backyard birds conducted by the Home Habitat Society.

Those who participate in the Annual Bird List will be asked to complete a questionnaire concerning habitat surrounding their home. They will also be provided with a checklist of birds, on which they will record which species visit their yard.

Richard Van Vleck, the society's director, said anyone can participate. All that is needed is access to a field guide to bird identification, which can be found in all libraries and bookstores, and an interest in birds.

The number of different species of birds using your yard is a useful indicator of the quality of habitat you are providing, said Van Vleck. Keeping a record of the birds visiting your yard over several years may offer evidence of the value of improvements you have made to your home habitat, such as providing food and nesting sites. In contrast, a shrinking bird list may demonstrate the effect of extensive development or other habitat changes around your property.

Homeowners from both rural and residential areas are needed to participate in the survey. Property size can vary from the smallest yard to an entire farm.

Participants will be sent the 1993 forms, to be returned at the end of the year. They will then receive a summary of the survey, including recognition of those who gave the greatest number of species for various size yards in each state. The survey results are also printed in the society's journal, Home Ground.

To take part in the Annual Bird List, send a self-addressed stamped business-size envelope to the Home Habitat Society, P.O. Box 412, Taneytown, Md. 21787.