Header photo by Govinda Holtby.
Being a Volunteer
Trained volunteers are key to gathering the core of the Salish Sea Guillemot Network's (SSGN) research data. Each spring we recruit new volunteers. A one-evening training session and an in-the-field orientation are required for volunteers. Volunteers are expected to visit their assigned colonies at least once every week during late May, June, July and August (at least 10 weeks).
The survey also includes more concentrated study during the period when the young are being fed in the burrows. Focused research at this time will shed light on the success of fledglings and the species of fish used to feed the young.
Our volunteer team has great enthusiasm for and interest in stewarding their colonies. The survey experience offers them an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a community science project. Many also find it a delightful excuse for observing and enjoying our nearshore environment.
The survey also includes more concentrated study during the period when the young are being fed in the burrows. Focused research at this time will shed light on the success of fledglings and the species of fish used to feed the young.
Our volunteer team has great enthusiasm for and interest in stewarding their colonies. The survey experience offers them an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a community science project. Many also find it a delightful excuse for observing and enjoying our nearshore environment.
Join a Survey!
Navigate on the map below to find out where we are surveying pigeon guillemots in Washington State. If you are interested in being a survey volunteer, click on a highlighted area to find your survey region and contact information for the local coordinating organization. You can also fill out a Breeding Survey Volunteer Sign-Up Form below and we'll connect you to the right person. Don't see a survey in your area? Get in touch with us and we'll do our best to get you out volunteering!
Note: Our survey season runs from June 1st through the end of August, so we are currently in our off season. We begin planning for each breeding season in the spring and hold our beach surveyor and data training sessions in May. If you would like to inquire, we recommend filling out a volunteer sign-up form in the early spring (March-May). Thank you for your interest!
Note: Our survey season runs from June 1st through the end of August, so we are currently in our off season. We begin planning for each breeding season in the spring and hold our beach surveyor and data training sessions in May. If you would like to inquire, we recommend filling out a volunteer sign-up form in the early spring (March-May). Thank you for your interest!
Clicking this button takes you to the Whidbey Audubon Society website. Whidbey Audubon Society provides financial management services to the SSGN.