Vancouver Christmas Bird Count

Take part in the world’s longest running Citizen Science Project!

Volunteers are still needed to take part in the Vancouver Christmas Bird Count.  This year, the count runs from sunrise to sunset on SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14th.

The overall goal of the count is for scientists and others to try to track changes in bird populations across North America and around the world.  The goal of the Vancouver count is to try to count all birds by species in a 24km diameter circle on a single day.

Birders at all levels of ability are welcome.  More eyes are generally better and beginners can help find birds in each count area, for the experts to identify.  Note though that the count lasts for the full day, so it may not be suitable for young birders.

You will need a pair of binoculars, as it’s nearly impossible to identify many birds without them.

To volunteer, look at the Vancouver Count Circle map below and consider which area(s) you’d like to help in.  Then send an email to colin@naturevancouver.ca, stating what that letter designation is.   The appropriate Area Leader will then be asked to contact you with details.

Here’s a photo of the map used to plan the Vancouver count. Click on the map for a bigger image.

There will be the usual Post-Count Dinner at the new location of the Unitarian Church Hall at 49th and Oak Street. We look forward to sharing a meal with appetizers starting at 4:30 pm  after an iconic Nature Vancouver tradition.

General information on Christmas Bird Counts is available on BIRD STUDIES CANADA website. The BC Field Ornithologists maintain a list of Christmas Bird Counts around the province.