The real problem with using these codes is that they cause confusion, on
several levels. Many readers have no idea at all what you're talking
about. If your intention is to show off your superior knowledge, you're
doing great; but if you want to communicate actual information, that's
not so great.

Even worse is when someone who uses the codes thinks he knows them, but
doesn't. Then the people who don't know the codes are in the dark, but
so are the folks who do know them.

Without looking it up, is RNPH a Ring-necked Pheasant or a Red-necked
Phalarope? Is CHSW a Chimney Swift or a Chestnut-sided Warbler? Is BAOW
a Barn Owl or a Barred Owl? What ARE the right codes for these owls? For
Nelson's Sparrow? Do the codes change when the bird's name changes? Is
Green Heron GRHE because that's its name now, or GBHE because it was
formerly Green-backed Heron, or GRHE because it was Green Heron before
it was Green-backed Heron?

--
--
Ned Keller
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