We are always seeking new volunteers for MOON!
There are routes throughout the state. Most routes consist of 10 stops, each a mile apart. At each stop, volunteers are asked to exit their vehicles and listen passively for owls and nightjars for 6 minutes, recording the individuals detected each minute of the 6-minute block. All randomly chosen routes are located along forested habitat, so it is likely you will be able to enjoy other nocturnal vocalizations while out. Volunteers are asked to monitor their routes at least once each year, but twice is optimal.
The MOON protocol and data forms are available for volunteers to download through the MOON website, or can be emailed to you directly by contacting Tara Beveroth.
While we realize not all volunteers will have the resources to broadcast bird calls (playback), we encourage those who do to play Eastern Screech-owl and Barn Owl calls at the end of each 6-minute block during stops.
Some things we would like our volunteers to have before monitoring are:
- Good hearing and ability to detect owls and nightjars vocally (Bird Calls)
- A vehicle to drive the route
- Commitment to survey their selected route each year
Finally, because these routes are monitored in the evening, we ask that monitors not go out alone. Taking another monitor or friend with you is always a good idea.