What does CBC mean in UNCLASSIFIED

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is an annual event sponsored by the National Audubon Society. It’s a long-running, volunteer-based citizen science initiative that has been running since 1900, when it began as an alternative to traditional holiday bird hunting. Volunteers document all birds seen within a 15-mile diameter circle during a 24-hour period in the month of December or early January each year.

Everyone from experienced birders to novice naturalists can participate. There are typically between 70,000 and 80,000 volunteers who take part in this citizen science initiative each year.

The count takes place over a three week period every year that includes dates between mid-December and early January. This provides optimum results for the bird population because many species will be migrating through at that time of year.

You can find local CBC circles near you by visiting Audubon’s website and searching by zip code or state. Once there, you can either contact your local circle leader directly or join an online group associated with it.

Absolutely! All of your data collected during the CBC will be compiled into reports and archives where scientists and conservationists can access it to help inform their research trends and statistics on bird populations around North America.

At a minimum, all participants should have proper footwear for walking off trail environments, binoculars, a field guide, notebook and pencils/pens (cell phones work too!). Depending on what circle you join more specialized gear like spotting scopes may be necessary to observe birds from further away.

Not at all! We welcome both new and experienced birders alike! Most CBC teams have leaders who will provide guidance throughout counting day about identification tips or protocols for properly collecting data that everyone should abide by.

Not technically required but extremely recommended is bringing plenty of snacks/drinks (water especially!), sunscreen/insect repellent if outdoors conditions apply, light layers just in case temperatures vary throughout day or evening hours, hat/sunglasses protection specially if combined with sunscreen use and good company as group dynamics matter sometimes too while birding together!