The Hartford Big January of Birding challenge is coming to a close!  Please make sure all your January observations are entered into ebird.org, the free birdwatching site maintained by the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology, no later than the end of January 31st.   You do not need to be an HAS member to enter.  If you are not using ebird, please email me your list no later than Friday, February 5th (sffaulkner@comcast.net). Winners will be announced on February 6th!    There are four categories for entry:

• Youth (ages 4-10) who must see at least 25 species to enter
• Teen (ages 11-17) who must see at least 35 species to enter
• Weekend Warrior (adults ages 18 and up who can’t get outdoors during the week) who must see at least 50 species to enter
• Adults (ages 18 and up who can get outdoors during the week) who must see at least 60 species to enter.

All entries that meet the minimum number of species for each challenge group will receive a certificate of achievement.  A special prize will be awarded for the highest species count for each challenge group, and the coveted “Golden Grebe” award will be given to the birder finding the most unusual bird

COVID-19 Reminder: Participants are cautioned to follow COVID-19 protocols while birding.  Wear masks that cover your nose when near others; socially distance at least 6’ from others and more distance when walking; bird only with others in your immediate family or in very small groups; and wash your hands as frequently as possible.  Please be considerate of others and give a wide berth to others on trails.