The World Series of Birding explained

Did you know bird watching is a sport?

Hardcore birders do and they’ll be flocking to South Jersey for The New Jersey Audubon’s34th annual World Series of Birding on Saturday, May 6.

The 24-hour competition takes place during the peak month for spring bird migration.And New Jersey just happens to be right in the heart of the migratory path.

During the event, more than 100 teams in four levels of competition will strive to identifyas many bird species as they can, by sight or sound, within 24 hours.

There’s even a free WSB phone app available for both Android and iPhones to log in sightings.

The playing field encompasses the entire state, but teams can elect to participate in justone county. Many will head to Cape May County, which boasts over 400 different speciesof migratory birds.

Protecting birds and ensuring ethics are key factors behind the contest’s strict rules.

All bird species must be identified by at least two team members and 95 percent ofthose species recorded must be identified by all members of the team. Electronic bird calls,flushing of nests and spotlights or other hand-held lighting are forbidden.

WSB has helped raise nearly $9 million over the past three decades for for Audubon’sconservation programs, all while bringing increased public awareness to migration habitats.

Saturday, May 6, 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. – various locations, N.J.