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Marsh Madness Marshbird Bioblitz

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge | May 25-28, 2023

Join Bird Alliance of Oregon in this first-ever Harney Basin marshbird bioblitz. We’ll send teams to the Silvies Floodplain and across Malheur National Wildlife Refuge to survey for marshbirds. Participants will be able to participate in surveys at sunrise, sunset, or both. Camping will be provided. Camping may be available closer to the Silvies Floodplain. Camping gear is available for participants to use during this event. Most routes will travel along gravel or paved roads. Some routes may require short hikes. There will not be bathrooms available along most routes.

Partners: Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

A Long-billed Curlew is walking on the beach.
Long-billed Curlew, photo by Mick Thompson

Get Involved!

Sign up to survey for marshbirds across the Silvies Floodplain and across Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

Sign-up

About the Survey

  • Survey Instructions: Basic survey instructions are available including maps of survey areas.
  • When:  May 25-28
  • Where: Survey sites are Silvies Floodplain and areas of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Time Commitment: Three days, 1-2 for travel and 1-2 for surveys
  • Reporting: Completed shorebird datasheets will be provided after surveys are finalized. Datasheets will be collected from Team Leaders and submitted to the Malheur NWR wildlife and Bird Alliance of Oregon biologists.

 

Volunteer Requirements

  • Trainings:  Orientation to the protocol and marshbird ID will be provided prior to surveying. Volunteers will work on a team.
  • Bird ID Skills: Must be able to identify marshbirds, including peeps. Team Leaders will be experienced with shorebird ID and will be familiar with survey sites and protocol.
  • Equipment: Must have own binoculars (some may be available from Malheur NWR with notice ahead of time). Some scopes will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own scope.
  • Field Conditions: Most routes will travel along gravel or paved roads.
  • Transportation: Transportation to Malheur NWR will be your responsibility. Refuge vehicles will be available for Team Leaders to drive participants to survey sites.

 

Contact

For questions contact Teresa Wicks, Eastern Oregon Field Coordinator, at twicks@birdallianceoregon.org