Climate Watch

This community science program explores 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 fight by observing birds in your area, using our specific protocol, and helping us learn about how birds are responding to the changing climate.

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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Sign up to receive email notifications about Climate Watch.

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Know Your Climate Watch Target Species
Eastern Bluebird
Thrushes
Mountain Bluebird
Thrushes
Western Bluebird
Thrushes
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Nuthatches
White-breasted Nuthatch
Nuthatches
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Nuthatches
Pygmy Nuthatch
Nuthatches
American Goldfinch
Finches
Lesser Goldfinch
Finches
Eastern Towhee
New World Sparrows
Spotted Towhee
New World Sparrows
Painted Bunting
Cardinals, Grosbeaks and Buntings
New to Climate Watch?
Everything you need to know about getting started
Climate Watch Coordinators
Climate Watch Coordinators

Contact a coordinator in your area to join a coordinated effort or visit the Climate Watch story map to learn how to participate on your...

Want to be a Coordinator?
Join us to help run Climate Watch!
Climate Watch FAQ's
Climate Watch FAQ's

Frequently asked questions about Audubon's Climate Watch program

Get to Know Climate Watch

Climate Watch Results
Climate Watch Results

Climate Watch has only just begun. See the results from our work so far.