Christmas Bird Count: How Backyard Birders Can Participate

Join the Festive Fun with the Christmas Bird Count!

The holiday season brings with it a wonderful tradition that’s perfect for any bird enthusiast: the Christmas Bird Count! Organized by the National Audubon Society, this beloved citizen science project has been happening for over a century. It's a fantastic way to contribute to bird conservation and research, and the best part? You can participate right from your own backyard! It’s a great way to make your winter bird feeding even more meaningful.

How to Be a Backyard Count Contributor

Participating is simple and rewarding. Here’s what you need to do:

• Find a Count Circle: The count takes place within designated circles across North America. You can find a local count and compiler through the Audubon website. Many backyard birders can participate by simply observing their usual feeding areas.
• Count Your Birds: On the designated count day (usually in late December or early January), spend some time observing the birds in your area. Record every individual bird you see and identify it to the best of your ability. Don't forget to note the species and the number of individuals seen. Even common birds like House Sparrows and American Robins add valuable data!
• Submit Your Data: Your count compiler will collect all the data from within the circle. They compile the results and submit them to Audubon. If you're joining a group, follow their specific submission guidelines. If you're counting on your own within an established circle, your compiler will guide you.

Your observations help scientists track bird populations, understand migration patterns, and identify conservation needs. It’s a fun and impactful way to celebrate the season and give back to nature. Making sure your feeders are well-stocked, perhaps with some hearty seed mixes, can help attract a wider variety of birds to your observation zone.