On this page you will find datasheet downloads, information on what is in the COASST survey kit, and kit innovations by COASSTers for your perusal and inspiration.
Data Sheets
The latest versions of the COASST data sheets can be found below. You should complete a copy of the Cover Sheet after each survey, but you only need to fill out a Beached Bird Data Sheet if you find birds. Click to download a pdf.
COASST Cover Sheet
This 2-pager is a COASST Cover Sheet with a Beached Bird Data Sheet on the back.
Other Kit Materials and Their Uses
There are many parts to a COASST kit and all have a specific use. Explore what you should have in your kit below.
A measuring tape, a pair of dividers, and a ruler. The three measuring tools you need to get accurate measurements of bills, wings, and feet (tarsi). Identifying a beached bird to species is done using a COASST field guide. We have two versions for our participants, an Alaska guide, and a West Coast guide. In order to not count a beached bird twice, COASSTers will tag them with with wooden numbers and hemp twine. A nail clippers helps cut the twine while on the beach. A way to tell scale in a photograph is key. This scale ruler and photocard ensure both an accurate scale and the ability to connect every photo to the data taken alongside. A clipboard, a reminder sheet, datasheets, and handouts for curious passerby complete the COASST kit.
Kit Innovations
The kit we provide our COASSTers could never perfect for everyone, so we often see a lot of creativity by the folks using the tools. Below is a slideshow of various kit innovations by COASST Participants.
A specially designed holder for kit supplies along with the addition of some nice metal tools. Photo/kit credit: BB Bainbridge A closing clipboard can help keep datasheets dry. And a kneeling pad always helps! A camping stool/table can make a big difference to your comfort on a rocky shore. EMT shears can cut anything you might need to cut. Plus a whisk broom to move that sand and you are all set. Photo/kit credit: Gary L. Tying on the string before you get to the beach can save a lot of time and frustration! Photo/kit credit: Carole C. A digital caliper helps get measurements faster. And a chalk pen and board from the dollar store is a lovely addition. Photo/kit credit: Joelle P. A DIY chalkboard is a wonderful replacement for the ones we have provided in the past. Christopher W. shows his iteration off here. There are many ways to carry around your equipment, a gorgeous handmade box is one beautiful way! Deirdre and Douglas Y. show off their Rite-in-the-Rain notebook which they use while on the beach before translating their data to the official coversheet. A notebook flaps around in the wind less than a big sheet of paper! DIY chalkboards from the dollar store have proven to be a useful kit addition. Joeleen R. shows her creation off here.
