The Great Backyard Bird Count

Please join us January 19th at 7:30pm for “The Great Backyard Bird Count” presented by Mr. Zachary Rittner and learn how to help collect data for ornithologists right in your own corner of town.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four day community project that runs from February 13-16th 2026. Anyone can assist with this project by using apps like eBird and Merlin during these dates to collect information about local birds that is useful to scientists studying bird populations and trends. Mr. Rittner will present a helpful slide show presentation explaining this important community event.

Mr. Rittner has an impressive background: he received his B.S. in Biology from Union College in Schenectady, NY, his M.A. in teaching at Montclair State University, and an M.S. in Land Resources and Environmental Science from Montana State University. He is a National Geographic Certified Educator, a Chris Morgan Wildlife Ambassador, a Gideon Hawley Teacher of the Year in 2020 and 2023, a New Jersey Exemplary Educator, a Seasonal Naturalist Certified Educator, and was recently featured for his bird walks at Trailside Museum. In 2023 TV host Chris Morgan invited Mr. Rittner to join him in an Arctic polar bear expedition to Svalbard, Norway. He is also the head of the Environmental Sciences Department at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School.

This event is free and open to the public January 19th at 7:30pm at Mira Vie 295 South Avenue Fanwood. Come and bring guests to this informative event presented by the College Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains Refreshments will be served. Please feel free to visit our website: fspcollegeclub.org.