The science of ornithology has always been entwined with non-scientist observers. Historically this was in the form of personal letters and has now evolved to web-based applications, most notably eBird. Data is simply data until someone tells a story with it, and this is a primary focus of the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. The seasonal editors, or storytellers, depend on your observations. The beauty of this modern-day approach is that with better levels of detail provided comes better application to different niches such as habitat management and climate science.

Using eBird

• When possible, select a designated hotspot name for your location and not simply the Google name of the park. At the highest level this creates a list of species seen by grouping all lists.
• Some larger hotspots have discreet secondary sub-locations that provide even more scientific information such as habitat. Use these if you can to increase the value of your contribution, although observations at the higher level of specificity are certainly valuable.
• To be the most useful, individual checklists should encompass the same habitats and not cover more than 5 miles.
• Lists covering more than 5 miles may be helpful for seasonal reporting but not be available for scientific research.
• Be sure to start a new checklist when you change locations!
• As part of data quality review, some species that are rare, are seen at an unusual time of year, or recorded in high numbers, may need some details. Describe the characteristics you used to identify the bird or that a high number was counted or estimated. The more detail you can provide the better.
• Note that for extreme rarities the eBird reviewer may also request that you complete a fuller documentation at https://iowabirdrecords.org/Reporting/