The 25th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) takes place February 18 – 21. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature, help the birds and be a citizen-scientist. This study helps scientists better define bird ranges, populations, migration pathways and habitat needs. Wild Birds Unlimited is the founding sponsor of this joint project between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Birds Canada and the National Audubon Society.
Individuals, families, schools and organizations are encouraged to count birds at bird feeders and in backyards, local parks or other locations. Participants will simply need to watch birds for at least 15 minutes at the location of their choice on one or more of the count days.
After watching, report the findings in one of the following ways, whichever is most convenient:
- New participants can enter counts on the Merlin Bird ID App. Resources for identifying birds are also there.
- Previous participants can use eBird.
- For those who do not have a smart phone, use your desktop computer or laptop and visit the Great Backyard Bird Count website.
Participating in this citizen-science project is just one of seven simple actions you can take to #SaveTheSongBirds.