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How can you get involved in phenology observations or data collecting? Many people keep phenology records for their own enjoyment while others collect for strict scientific usage.
In either case the first step is simply a matter of selecting subjects of interest and setting up a routine for collecting and comparing your data. Specifically designed computer software like Life Cycles can help with the tasks of organization and standardization of records. But a ledger and a pencil will also work.
The best phenological observations for comparison purposes are those that are made from the same location year after year.
Plants:
For plant life, a specific site (even a flower garden or yard) is frequently used. In a wooded setting an area to be monitored (for example an area containing a group of Trillium) can be set off with markers. Sometimes the same plant (for example a lilac bush) is used and is an excellent choice for comparison purposes.
Commonly monitored phenological events for plants are:
- Bud opening
- First leaf
- First flower
- 50% bloom
- 90% bloom.
Animals:
For some animal observations, a specific site may not be possible. But for comparison purposes, annual observations made from close to the same longitude, latitude and altitude are the best. Some commonly monitored events for animals are:
- Amphibians(frogs & toads) - first singing, egg laying, life stages
- Birds - migration, courting rituals or nesting dates
- Insects - dates of appearance/emergence or life stage cycles
- Mammals - dates of hibernation, courting rituals, birth of young
Other:
One neat thing about personal phenological observations is that anything of interest is fair game. Here are a few ideas for other kinds of phenological observations that you might decide to record:
- Last snow or last frost of Spring
- First snow or first frost of Fall
- Date a local lake or pond freezes in the Fall or opens in the Spring
- Date of the first mosquito bite of the season
- Anything else of interest to you
For those who like more structure in their observations, there are organizations and projects like some of those listed on the links page where you can participate in annual survey of phenological events.
Students in science and biology classes are also getting involved in this important and educational activity both on an individual basis and networking with other schools. "Prairie Plant Watch" is a Canadian science project of a network of schools that are involved in phenological data collection. Information is also collected and shared by students on "The Globe" and "Journey North" who learn skills in nature observation and data gathering. Students enjoy the opportunity of contributing and sharing their observations using modern computer software and networking technology.
