Bird Counts

Christmas Bird Count:  The data collected by observers over the past century allow researchers, conservation biologists, and interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America.

Great Backyard Bird Count

  February 13-16, 2009

Thanksgiving Bird Count takes place on Thanksgiving Day, and last only ONE HOUR. 

Thanksgiving Bird Count Form (pdf)

The counter chooses the time of day that best fits his or her holiday schedule.  The count is to be made in a 15-foot diameter circle, the location of which is the counter's choice. Circles are usually located around something which attracts birds -- such as feeders, baths, cover, etc.  Most poeple select a count area visible from a comfortable spot near a window.  Count individual birds only ONCE. 

Western Screech Owl - Paul Buescher

Last year, 401 counts were received from the eleven western states and Alaska.  Counters tallied 141 different bird species inside their circles at count time.  Number one was the House Sparrow (1,991) for the eighth year in a row.  In the second spot again was the Dark-eyed Junco (1,941) and the House Finch was third (1,930).  The rest of the top ten were (in order) Black-capped Chickadee, American Goldfinch, California Quail, Mourning Dove, Steller's Jay, White-crowned Sparrow and Common Redpoll.  Although reported from only three states, the Common Redpoll was the most abundant species in Alaska and also seen in Montana and Colorado.

Thanksgiving Bird Counts were begun in 1966, by Ernest Edwards in Virginia. 

Written by Count Coordinator, Dr. John Hewston, Humboldt State University, Arcata, CA 95521