Point Count

KBO implements point count surveys to monitor breeding bird distribution, diversity, and abundance. The surveys are completed during the breeding season, from early May through early July.

On average 12 point count stations are sampled in the morning, but depending on terrain a morning route could range from 6 to 25 stations.  Surveys begin at sunrise and are completed within four hours.  At each count station, the observer records all birds that are seen or heard and estimates the distance to each individual during a 5-minute count period.  Recording the distance to each bird detected allows estimation of detection probability. Check out our publications to read how we use this method.