For the Birds! Twice a year Cornell's Lab of Ornithology organizes a Global Big Day bird count. People worldwide participate in identifying and counting local birds using eBird and the Merlin app. In May of 2024 1.3 million people contributed to this citizen science effort, providing valuable information to scientist and having fun at the same time! The 2024 October Big Day will be 10/12. To prepare for the Big Day, join our programs on Saturday 10/5/24 to learn about nature photography, birding, biodiversity, and citizen science. 1pm-Nature Photography, Citizen Science, eBird, and Merlin Steve Karl, CSUF Biology Staff Microscopist, will speak on outdoor nature photography. As a microscopist, Steve's job is to photograph through a microscope, but he is also an outstanding outdoor nature photographer, taking advantage of the proximity of the Fullerton Arboretum to photograph birds in their natural habitat. He'll offer strategies for making your nature photography the best it can be. Librarian Barbie McConnell will share information on how to find and participate in citizen science activities. She will also show eBird and Merlin to help you get ready for the October Big Day bird count. Find out how to identify birds by size and color, using a picture, or by recording their songs! 2pm-Flyways viewing Watch PBS Nature documentary Flyways with us and learn how bird-loving experts and citizen scientists join forces to face the challenge of understanding and saving migratory shorebirds. 3-4pm-Craft a pine cone feeder to attract birds to your yard.