It’s Almost Christmas Bird Count Time in the Bitterroot

By Larry Barnes, Hamilton CBC Compiler

Perhaps the first citizen science project began in 1900 when Frank Chapman organized a bird count that was conducted by volunteers on Christmas Day. Birds were counted in 25 places by 27 people and a tradition was born. Now, 124 years later, there are ~2,500 counts in all states and 20 foreign countries, mostly in the Western Hemisphere.

There are two ways to participate. Each count circle is 15-miles in diameter and contains 177 square miles. Observers move about this circle, keeping track of their effort (distance covered, hours in the field) while recording the numbers of each species seen. Or, there is a feeder watch option for those who live within a count circle and prefer to keep a pane of glass between them and the birds. Either way, the day’s observations are sent to the count compiler who 

combines the data and submits it to the National Audubon Society.

All ages and skill levels are welcome. If a beginner, you will be paired with a more experienced birder or birders. The groups gather at about 7:30 am with the intent of getting to the field by daylight about 8:00 am. The Hamilton group honors a 37-year-old tradition by returning to the Teller Barn for a lunch break featuring homemade chili and Oreos, and of course some delectable Christmas goodies. We aim to enjoy our common interest in nature together while searching for birds in the dead of winter. If this sounds like fun, call us for details. 

7:30 am, Teller Education Barn, 1180 Chaffin Lane in Corvallis

Larry Barnes 208-471-8297