The Weminuche Audubon Society and the Durango Bird Club recently announced an ambitious new research project aimed at better understanding the influences on breeding success of the American dipper, a charismatic mountain songbird known for its habit of diving into icy streams in search of food.
The study will examine how macroinvertebrates in the streams, along with the temperature of the air and water, and turbidity of the water affect the ability of dippers to raise young to the fledgling stage. The findings should shed light on how environmental conditions may be affecting local dipper populations in the Animas and upper San Juan River watersheds.
Volunteers in the Pagosa Springs area are being recruited to assist with monitoring several known nest sites throughout the Pagosa Springs region. Participants will help collect data on stream conditions and observe nesting activity.
Those interested are invited to attend an orientation meeting at 1 p.m. on March 28 at the Community United Methodist Church, where teams will be formed and project details outlined. A riverside workshop is also planned in April to learn how to collect and analyze macroinvertebrates.
This project will also be discussed at the monthly Weminuche Audubon Society at 6 p.m. on April 15.
Organizers say no prior scientific or birding experience is required, but binoculars are a beneficial tool to have available. Come join us if you can.
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