• The goal is to positively identify as many bird species as possible in the 24 hour period.
• A team has at least two participants, but preferably three. Teams of more than four members will not be included in the results.
• The race begins at 3pm on Saturday 15 May 2010 and ends at 3pm the following day. Only bird species recorded within this 24 hour period may be counted.
• Teams may begin anywhere they choose within Austria, but must remain within one province (Bundesland).
• Results sheets must be submitted at the latest by midday on Wednesday 20 May 2009. Completed forms can be sent by fax or email to the organisers at bird.at or BirdLife Austria.
• The majority of team members (>51%) must positively identify a species by either sight or sound in order for it to be recorded. Consequently, it is best for the team to always remain together.
• Only living birds count! No roadkill.
• Only visual or acoustic identifications can be counted. Indirect observations such as nests, faeces, signs or other markings do not count but should be noted.
• You may not use birdcall players to attract birds.
• You may drive to your starting point but may not use your vehicle once the event has begun. The following means of transportation are allowed: all public transportation (bus, train, boat) and muscle powered transportation (bicycle, roller blades, skate board, horse riding, etc ...).
• Obey local rules, especially in woods, nature reserves and national parks: stay on assigned tracks (the Austrian Wegegebot law).  Failure to comply with this rule will result in disqualification!
• Trespassing: Visiting private estates and gardens is only permitted with the prior consent of the property owner/manager. Please do not disturb ceremonies or other gatherings, and be sure to be respectful and quiet when visiting cemeteries.
• IMPORTANT: Participation in the Austrian BirdRace is solely at one’s own risk. The organisers and others associated with the event will not be held responsible for any damages, injury or loss of life and/or limb.
• The protection of birds, habitats and the privacy of the local people and landowners comes first!

Points are awarded according to the species lists submitted at the end of the race, and are calculated as follows:

• Each positively identified bird species is awarded one point.
• Exotic or introduced species get no points. However, established and breeding introduced species (such as the Common Pheasant Phasianus colchicus or Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata) do count, i.e. category C species.
• In contrast to previous years, there will be no “blocker” bonus points awarded to unique records not recorded by another group.
• Funds raised through sponsorship will be focussed within the province (Bundesland) that records the greatest proportion of observable species.

BirdLife Austria reserves the right to distribute said funds in the manner it deems most fit. The distribution and utilization of funds will take place in an open manner.

Mag. Karin Donnerbaum:  0650 4306 396
Martin Riesing: 0699 1236 2416
Christoph Roland: 0650 524 69 13