Climate Watch

A community science program exploring how North American birds are responding to climate change.

Help us understand how climate is affecting the birds around you

Since 2016, Climate Watch volunteers have collected data which Audubon scientists are able to use to document in peer reviewed research that birds are responding to climate change and shifting their ranges. You can join us in this mission by observing birds in your area, using our specific protocol, and helping us learn about how birds are responding to the changing climate.

Sign Up to Participate in Climate Watch Resources for Climate Watch Regulars Explore Past Climate Watch Results Submit Your Data to Climate Watch Climate Watch Survey Planning Tool

Anyone can participate in Climate Watch!

According to Audubon’s 2019 climate change report, ‘Survival By Degrees,’ up to two-thirds of North American birds are vulnerable to extinction due to climate change. The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities to protect birds from this existential threat, and Audubon members have been leading the way for years. Thousands of people asked how they could help make the world a better place for birds, and Climate Watch was born. Since 2016, Climate Watch volunteers have collected data which Audubon scientists are able to use to document in peer reviewed research that birds are responding to climate change and shifting their ranges.

During winter (January 15 to February 15) and summer (May 15 to June 15) each year, participants conduct a series of 12 five-minute point counts within a designated 10km x 10km square in their area, with the goal of documenting the presence or absence of target species (including bluebirds, nuthatches, towhees, goldfinches, or buntings, depending on the location). This project is open to the public, including all interested Audubon chapters and centers, in addition to organized groups and individuals with an interest in birds.

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