[Birdtalk] Documentation

[Mark Stackhouse]

I've received a number of requests for information of how and where to 
submit documentation, as well as how the reports should be written. I'm 
happy to report, that due to the effort and organizational skills of 
our committee secretary, Milton Moody, the process is very easy and 
relatively painless. Reports can be submitted online at:

http://www.utahbirds.org/RecCom/ReportFormWeb.htm

There are instructions for completing the form, and a link to an 
excellent article on how to write a rare bird report. In general, make 
as many notes as you can, in the field if possible, or as soon as 
possible afterwards. Also, make sure you include as much detail as you 
can in your description of the bird - even if you have a photo of the 
bird. One of my pet-peeves with regards to documentation is when 
someone includes a photo and all they have under description is "see 
photo." Photos rarely show everything, and shouldn't be viewed as a 
substitute for a written description. Also, the section on similar 
species and how they were eliminated is perhaps even more important 
than the description - be as thorough as possible in this section.

Don't hesitate to ask me or other committee members (you can e-mail the 
committee from the website) if you have questions about the form or the 
process.

Good birding!

Mark Stackhouse
mark at westwings.com
801-487-9453 (Salt Lake City, Utah, USA)
011-52-323-285-1243 (San Blas, Nayarit, Mexico)