Christmas Bird Counts are for Everyone
The Christmas Bird Count season is just around the corner with counts occurring across the Western Hemisphere from December 14, 2023 to January 5, 2024. New birders are always welcome.
Ashley Meadows, with Audubon Rockies, wrote about being a new birder on her first Christmas Bird Count as part of the Boulder circle.
Read Ashley’s full article No, You’re Not Too Inexperienced to Join the Christmas Bird Count, to hear about her first Christmas Bird Count in the Boulder circle with a group led by Scott Severs, current BCAS President. Ashley also shares tips for enjoying any Christmas Bird Count.
Ashley’s Quick, Step-by-Step Guide to CBCs
Find a group hosting a count (also called a “circle”) near you. New birders are welcome! Find a circle near you.
Email the leader of the circle you’d like to join. I recommend doing this as soon as you can. Many are already making plans and groups can fill up!
The compiler will confirm if their circle is accepting additional participants. If they are, they’ll let you know when and where to meet and what to bring.
On the day of the event, you’ll count birds with your circle of fellow bird lovers.
Remember to check the weather and dress warm.
The 2023 Boulder Christmas Bird Count is on Sunday, December 17th.
Ashley Meadows joined the Boulder Christmas Bird Count at Teller Farm in Boulder, Colorado. Photo: Evan Barrientos/Audubon Rockies