It’s that time of year again! The 120th Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is fast approaching. Since 1900, dedicated birders have devoted a day to censusing all the birds in their area. In its first year, 27 birders in 25 locations counted a total of 90 species; in the 2017-18 count, 76,987 participants in 2585 locations counted a whopping 2,673 species. The incredible dataset produced by generations of CBC participants has helped scientists reveal trends in bird populations that have significantly aided conservation efforts.
Are you interested in taking part this year? There are counts hosted across the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean, and Central and South America between December 14 and January 5. Find a count near you on the FWC events page, on Audubon’s interactive CBC map or by reaching out to your local Audubon chapter. Many organizers will pair beginners with experienced birders, so this is an excellent way to hone your birding skills and meet new people if you are just getting started in the birding world.
The CBC is also a great way to finish out your 2019 Big Year strong, if your count is before the new year – if you participate in a January count, it is a wonderful way to start your 2020 list. Don’t forget to apply for your Wings Over Florida Big Year certificate and pin to celebrate your accomplishments!