The 14th annual Great Backyard Bird Count runs from February 18 through 21 and we don't want you to miss out on it. It's fun, family-friendly and educational. It's free and open to all ages and skill levels. You can count birds for the minimum 15 minutes required, or all weekend—every bit of data on winter birds is important. You can even count feeder birds from the comfort of your own home. Or venture to a nearby park. Then go to your computer, enter your counts and watch the dots fill in the part of the map for your region.

Start now by logging onto www.BirdCount.org and familiarize yourself with the informative and easy-to-use website. There's even a special page "GBBC for Kids" with information and games for the little ones. This is a great way to get kids to focus on nature and yet spend time on their computers.

So, come on, be part of something BIG—be part of the Great Backyard Bird Count.