Nebraska Birding Bowl returns this May

Participate in the second Nebraska Birding Bowl and learn about birds, enjoy the outdoors and contribute data toward bird conservation. This fun, free statewide birding competition is returning this May for Nebraska Bird Month.

The Birding Bowl is a great opportunity to try out this hobby, improve skills, and share your love of birding with others. Birding opportunities exist across the state.

Participants of all levels are invited. Birders will compete as individuals or teams, registering online in April or May. They may participate in one of the following categories:

• Fledgling Flock — for youth groups and families to introduce birding to youth.
• Backyard Birder — for households that enjoy watching birds from their home.
• Dabbling Birder — for beginner-to-casual birders.
• Competitive Birder — for those who like to observe the most bird species.

Birders will use eBird, a community science platform, to track observations while contributing data for bird conservation.

Teams have a chance to win prizes, such as a two-night cabin stay at a state park, bird feeders, binoculars and a $1,000 cash prize.

The Nebraska Birding Bowl is a joint project of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Audubon Great Plains and the Wild Bird Habitat Store.

Visit birdtrail.outdoornebraska.gov/birdingbowl to register and learn more, including eBird webinars to prepare birders for the Birding Bowl. Also, see more information on a Birding Bowl Weekend Kickoff event May 3-5, in Lincoln.