The Arkansas Wren Survey

Citizen Scientists Rally For A Rare Bird

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Contact:

Dan Scheiman, Ph.D.
Bird Conservation Director
Audubon Arkansas
dscheiman@audubon.org
(501) 244-2229

Sarah Thompson
Graduate Researcher
Arkansas State University
sarah.thompson@smail.astate.edu
(870) 972-3082

Little Rock, AR, May 27, 2008 - Audubon Arkansas and the Department of Biological Sciences at Arkansas State University (ASU) announced today the start of a new citizen science survey for a rare and declining Arkansas bird – the Bewick’s Wren.

The Bewick’s Wren is a species of high conservation concern in Arkansas and throughout much of its range. Once common, today it is extremely rare east of the Mississippi River. The eastern edge of its range currently runs through Arkansas, making Arkansas the frontline for stemming the decline. The decline is probably due to habitat loss and competition with the House Wren for nest sites. Researchers at Audubon Arkansas and ASU need help searching for wrens across the state. “Arkansans have the opportunity to contribute significantly to a high priority conservation issue,” said Dr. James Bednarz, Professor of Wildlife Ecology at ASU. He added, “By learning where Bewick’s Wrens live and which habitats they prefer we can make informed decisions about how to best manage for the species.”

To learn more and sign up visit the Arkansas Wren Survey web site at ar.audubon.org/wren. The survey is open to anyone of any age and experience level who can spend at least 4 hours at least twice per year looking and listening for wrens in appropriate habitat. Educational and survey materials can be found online. Participants also can chat with each other, share stories and findings, and ask questions through the project’s e-mail discussion group. There is no fee to participate. Funding is provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission through the State Wildlife Grant program.