Christmas Bird Count Week

Join in the annual tradition of Christmas Bird Count Week and help collect valuable data on bird populations while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Yearly Date
December 14
Type
Week
Category
Animal

Introduction

Get ready to spot some beautiful feathered friends during Christmas Bird Count Week, which occurs from December 14- January 5! This annual event has been taking place since 1900 and is the longest-running citizen science project in the world. It was originally created as a way to encourage people to go outside and observe birds during the holiday season, but it has now become an important tool for scientists to track bird populations and migration patterns. So grab your binoculars and join in on this fun and educational tradition!

Christmas Bird Count Week Timeline

1900
First Christmas Bird Count
Ornithologist Frank M. Chapman proposed a new holiday tradition of counting birds instead of hunting them, marking the first Christmas Bird Count.
1950
Expanding North American Coverage
By 1950, the coverage of the count expanded to accumulate data from every state in the U.S., Canada and parts of Central America.
1981
Data Aids Conservation Efforts
By 1981, data collected from the bird count began playing a crucial role in conservation decisions, such as informing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's decision on setting waterfowl hunting seasons.
2000
100th Anniversary of Bird Count
The 100th anniversary of the Christmas Bird Count was celebrated, spotlighting the vast information the project provides about the long-term health of bird populations.
2019
Global Participants Record
In 2019, a record 81,601 bird watchers from more than 2,500 locations around the world participated in the Christmas Bird Count.

How to Celebrate Christmas Bird Count Week

1

Join a bird watching group

Find a local bird watching group and join them for a day of counting birds. You'll learn about different species and contribute to the Christmas Bird Count data.

2

Create a homemade bird feeder

Get crafty and make your own bird feeder using recycled materials. Hang it up in your yard and observe the different types of birds that come to visit.

3

Attend a bird-themed event

Check your local community calendar for any bird-themed events happening during Christmas Bird Count Week. It could be a lecture, workshop, or even a nature walk.

4

Volunteer with a conservation organization

Spend some time giving back to the environment by volunteering with a conservation organization that focuses on protecting birds and their habitats.

5

Host a bird-themed movie night

Gather some friends and family and watch a bird-themed movie like "Winged Migration" or "March of the Penguins". Serve bird-shaped snacks for added fun.

Why We Love Christmas Bird Count Week

A

It promotes bird conservation

The Christmas Bird Count is not just about counting birds - it is also a way to create awareness and support for bird conservation efforts. By participating, you are helping to collect valuable data that can aid in the protection of bird populations and their habitats.

B

It brings people together

The Christmas Bird Count is a community event where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to appreciate and learn about different bird species. It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow bird enthusiasts and share your knowledge and passion for these beautiful creatures.

C

It's fun and educational

Participating in the Christmas Bird Count allows you to explore nature and learn more about the different species of birds in your area. It's a chance to observe their behavior, identify their calls, and contribute to important scientific research. Plus, it's a great excuse to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature during the holiday season!

Christmas Bird Count Week Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Dec 13
Wednesday
2024
Dec 13
Friday
2025
Dec 13
Saturday
2026
Dec 13
Sunday
2027
Dec 13
Monday