Winter Bird Count On The Prairie

Event Summary

From December 14 through January 5 tens of thousands of volunteers throughout the Americas take part in an adventure that has become a family tradition among generations. Families and students, birders and scientists, armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists go out on an annual mission – often before dawn. For over one hundred years, the desire to both make a difference and to experience the beauty of nature has driven dedicated people to leave the comfort of a warm house during the Holiday season.

Each of the citizen scientists who annually brave snow, wind, or rain, to take part in the Christmas Bird Count makes an enormous contribution to conservation. Audubon and other organizations use data collected in this longest-running wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations – and to help guide conservation action.

From feeder-watchers and field observers to count compilers and regional editors, everyone who takes part in the Christmas Bird Count does it for love of birds and the excitement of friendly competition — and with the knowledge that their efforts are making a difference for science and bird conservation.

The count takes place within Count Circles, which focus on specific geographical areas and each circle is overseen by a Count Compiler. Count circles will be divided and areas assigned to participants at the meeting time and place below. If you are a beginning birder, you will be able to join a group that includes at least one experienced birdwatcher.

In addition, if your home is within the boundaries of a Count Circle, you can stay home and report the birds that visit your feeder.

Visit http://netapp.audubon.org/cbc/public/Search.aspx to search for the Count Circle closest to you.

On Saturday, January 12, 2013 beginning at 10:00 A.M. the Prairie Heritage Center will be hosting a Winter Bird Count.  Although the information gathered at this event is not included in the Christmas Bird Count, it is a fun event for many to come together.  No matter your birding experience…  Stay for the afternoon, as last year many participated in the Bald Eagle Count.

This event is free for everyone and we look forward to seeing you.  A few things to plan for as you prepare to attend this event: bring warm clothes (dress for the weather), a sack lunch (if you plan to stay for the afternoon), binoculars, spotting scope (if you have), and bird books.

See you on the Prairie for this GREAT winter event!

Category

Special Events

Related Item

• Find a Christmas Bird Count Near You