Christmas Count Turns Birders into Citizen Scientists
If it’s December it’s time to count the birds. For 112 years the National Audubon Society has been documenting the avian world with its annual Christmas Bird Count. The oldest citizen science (and longest running) project now utilizes the bird-spotting expertise of over 60,000 volunteers from around the country.
The task is simple. Go outside and count birds. Then add your observations the massive bird database, doing your part for science.
In Vermont, the annual Christmas bird count is a time to spot snowy owls and other winter rarities. But for biologist Kent McFarland from the Vermont Center for Ecostudies it’s more about familiar favorites like the tufted titmouse.
He says, “I’m really into whats going on over time with the common birds.”
Tufted Titmouse Forages in the Snow
He says, “The tufted titmouse is giving us an indicator here that yeah there is stuff going on across the landscape.”
The Audubon Society has been tracking the species of bird off and on since 1927 so there is a reliable dataset over a long period of time.
McFarland says, “I knew it was going to be an interesting bird to talk about.”
The annual Christmas count continues through January 5. So if you like birds or are looking for a fun family activity, head outside and start counting birds. Taking time to stop and watch the birds is a great way to appreciate nature this Holiday season.
NOTE: There is a $5 fee to participate in the Christmas Bird Count for all field participants aged 19 or older.
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