How to Join a Christmas Bird Count

It’s the event of the season—for avian enthusiasts, that is.  Across the Western Hemisphere, around 80,000 volunteers take part in the Christmas Bird Count (CBC) each year, tallying birds from December 14 to January 5. And there’s always room for more.

“You don’t have to be an expert birder to join,” says Cooper Farr, Audubon’s community science manager. Organizers welcome newbies to help cover established routes within a 15-mile diameter circle on a particular day during the three-week window. “We get more circles each year, and the more data we have to track bird populations during the winter, the better.”

The trove of information gathered over the CBC’s 125-year history provides insight into the health of bird populations and helps guide conservation action. While the data are serious stuff, gathering them is a blast. There’s camaraderie, friendly competition, and plenty of opportunity for first timers to socialize with other birders and learn from them. “It’s a big day, and very fun,” Cooper says. Here’s how to make the most of the tradition. 

Choose Your Adventure 
“Each count has its own unique flavor,” Farr says, and may include options to bird by car, foot, boat, or ski or to monitor your feeders if you live within a circle. Visit audubon.org/cbc to find a circle near you, then simply email the compiler and tell them you’d like to participate. “Compilers are usually very happy to work with folks and make sure that they feel comfortable and can participate,” Farr says.

Get Ready
A few days before the count, consider checking eBird and/or scouting your route to get a sense of the birds you will likely see. Such preparation is helpful but not necessary—unlike preparing for the weather. Day-of, check the forecast before you leave your home. If you’ll be out in cool conditions, pack hand warmers, hot drinks, and most importantly “dress warmer than you think you’ll need to, because birders move slowly,” Farr says. And whether your CBC is in Canada, Colorado, or Colombia, be sure to bring layers and plenty of water and snacks. 

Go Get ’Em 
Don’t stress—nobody expects novices to be ID whizzes. You’ll be paired with experienced counters who are familiar with the terrain and the birds usually found in the area. The goal is to record as many birds as possible, so your extra set of eyes and ears are useful for adding to the tally; if you aren’t sure of the species, your partner(s) will likely know it. Whether you join a count for a partial or full day, bird in a group or at the feeder in your yard: If there’s a post-count potluck or gathering, go! It’s where everyone swaps stories and celebrates their joint effort.

This story originally ran in the Winter 2024 issue. To receive our print magazine, become a member by making a donation today.