Environmental changes, increasing or decreasing food sources, and shifts in migration patterns can alter bird populations across North America.

Researcher with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the National Audubon Society, and Bird Studies Canada need help tracking the numbers and species of birds as recorded by citizen birdwatchers. The counts could come from a lawn chair in the backyard, a stroll around White Rock Lake, or a blind standing in a wildlife preserve.

The reports are compiled during the Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 12-15. The program helps scientists understand the degrees of well-being, the shifting population centers, and protection measures related to birds.

According to a joint press release, “Anyone can take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count, from novice bird watchers to experts. Participants count birds for as little as 15 minutes — or as long as they wish — on one or more days of the event and report their sightings online.”