The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is a citizen science tradition that began in 1900 in which volunteers across the Western Hemisphere participate in synchronized bird counts. This data collection effort has provided valuable insights into bird populations, distribution, and habitat health over time.
Christmas Bird Counts across the country are always conducted between December 14 to January 5, inclusive dates, every year. Areas to be included in the count are divided into circles. Each circle compiler will choose a single calendar day within those dates and your CBC birding is done on only one calendar day for each circle. All participants must make arrangements with their local group to participate in advance of the count date.
The CBC is open to the community and to birders of all levels. Our members participate heavily and bring along years of birding expertise.
Coeur d’Alene Audubon’s event is coordinated each year at our December chapter meeting—please plan to attend to learn more about participation and to sign up. If you are unable to attend the meeting and plan to participate, please contact us and we will get in touch with our local CBC Coordinator, Doug Ward.
The day begins with an optional kick-off breakfast at Michael D’s between 6 and 6:30 am, with the goal of being ready to begin the count at 7 am.
The day ends with an optional pot luck at a member’s home where we compile our statistics-details are provided to all who rsvp or attend the December meeting.
Please rsvp at rsvp@cdaaudubon.org.
Please reach us with your questions at contact@cdaaudubon.org.
Visit National Audubon’s CBC Live tracker to see photos posted from others who are scouting for or participating in the Christmas Bird Count, and to upload your own photos.
Accessibility: We have varying levels of participation available. Read more about accessibility and one member’s experience here. Please reach out to us to let us know how we can brainstorm with you to make this event accessible for you and your family.