MDOsprey,
For those of you that have been using eBird, hopefully you have noticed
the new feature in the past week--the plotting of birding hotspots on
Google Maps. Previously one had to select hotspots from a drop-down list
based on the hotspot name; the new mapping feature has much improved
functionality and accuracy. Please check it out and consider entering
all your birding lists this way from now on--when data are entered
through existing hotspots it makes it easier to track sightings at
Important Bird Areas (IBAs), refuges, and other sites of conservation
interest.
For those of you that have not been using eBird, this is a great new
tool for visiting birders. Simply pretend you are entering observations
for some state where you will be visiting or want to go birding. Zoom in
to see the red flags and by clicking on the red flags you'll be able to
see the local Birding Hotspots on a map as well as the names of the
locations. This can really help to plan a birding route around somewhere
like the Salton Sea so you can see how the hotspots connect with roads
and your planned route.
You do need to be a registered user (don't worry, it's free) to use this
feature. And while there playing with the hotspots map, please consider
entering a bird checklist from your day of birding! Every observation is
of value and is welcomed.
Best,
Marshall Iliff
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Marshall J. Iliff
West Roxbury, MA
miliff AT aol.com
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eBird/AKN Project Leader
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
159 Sapsucker Woods Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
http://www.ebird.org
http://www.avianknowledge.net
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