The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), an annual four-day event, begins February 13th and provides a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts worldwide to contribute to scientific understanding of avian populations. Organized by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada, the GBBC takes place each February before spring migrations begin.
Why This Matters: Bird populations are a key indicator of environmental health. Tracking their numbers and distribution helps scientists understand the impacts of climate change, habitat loss, and other factors affecting biodiversity. The GBBC provides valuable data that informs conservation efforts.
How to Participate
Participation is simple: choose a location, observe birds for at least 15 minutes, identify and count the species you encounter, and report your findings. You can use the eBird or Merlin Bird ID apps (available on iOS and Android) to submit your data and photos. The Merlin app is particularly helpful for beginners needing assistance with identification. Alternatively, record observations manually and enter them into eBird later.
The Impact of the GBBC: In 2024, over 642,000 participants from 210 countries recorded 7,920 species. This data revealed shifts in bird distribution – for instance, Lapland Longspurs spotted in Saskatchewan and Gray-crowned Rosy Finches in the Northwest Territories, indicating range expansions potentially due to climate change. Rare winter sightings of Plumbeous Vireos and Summer Tanagers in California suggest some species may be altering migration patterns.
What You Might See
Bird species vary by location. In the northeastern U.S., common feeder birds include Dark-eyed Juncos, Tufted Titmice, House Sparrows, and Northern Cardinals. Beyond feeders, observers can find Eastern Bluebirds, woodpeckers, and sapsuckers. Coastal areas may host unusual winter duck concentrations. Even unexpected locations like sewage plants can provide refuge for lingering warblers.
A Note on Winter Birding: While some species migrate south for the winter, others adapt to colder climates. The GBBC helps track these adaptations, including potential year-round residency in breeding territories due to milder winters.
Beyond Observation: Nighttime Insights
The GBBC isn’t limited to daylight hours. Monitoring nocturnal birds, such as Great Horned Owls, provides additional data on breeding activity. Their hooting calls signal preparation for egg-laying, adding another layer to the broader understanding of seasonal changes.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is more than just a hobby; it’s a citizen science initiative that helps researchers monitor and protect avian species. By participating, you contribute to a global effort to understand and conserve bird populations in a rapidly changing world.
