Annual surveys traditionally occur the last two weeks of May. Members and volunteers across the state venture out to count know colonies and record new sites.

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All data is then turned into a regional compiler (Upper, Mid, Lower Coasts) and entered into a database. Data records stretch back to 1973 and are available for researchers if the TCWS is given appropriate credit/ citation. 

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Do keep in mind that the data may have inconsistencies and errors. Compilers work hard to enter field counts and QA/QC all information. However, all TCWS data should be considered an estimate and not a 100% individual count in most cases. Counters, site changes/ topography, weather, and level of experience are just a few factors that could affect estimate quality.