It’s that time again… when we layer up and grab our binoculars, to head out birding for the annual Christmas Bird Count.
This year’s count marks the 122nd year of the longest-running citizen science census in the Western Hemisphere.
Last year, nearly 70 participants contributed in various capacities (birding at home feeders, from cross-country skis and snowshoes) to log 4,746 birds of 66 species across our 15-mile diameter circle. We had a number of youth birders join us as well.
This year, we’re encouraging anyone interested to jump in and have some fun with us, observing the winged-ones. All ages and abilities are welcome.
Data compiled helps avian scientists to better predict and thus protect bird populations as they move across the landscape, among a time of sustained stressors. We need your help!
The Pagosa Springs 2021 Christmas Bird Count will take place on Saturday, December 18. In the event of inclement weather on the 18th, the proposed alternate date for the count is Sunday, December 19. In the wake of the continued COVID-19 pandemic, we will be splitting our zones into smaller sub-zones for the purpose of avoiding carpooling, encouraging walking and birding closer to home, and taking all state-recommended considerations into account for a safe CBC.
In order to prepare for the count, Weminuche Audubon and Audubon Rockies will host bird identification classes, “Winter Birds 101”, for three evenings leading up to the count, beginning tomorrow, Wednesday December 1, when we’ll cover Waterfowl. Songbirds will be covered on Wednesday on December 8, and Raptors (along with CBC protocols and review) on Wednesday, December 15. All evening sessions will be held virtually on Zoom from approximately 6:00-8pm and in-person at the United Methodist Church. People attending in person are encouraged to wear masks indoors.
Lastly, there will be a CBC tally wrap-up and chili dinner held at the United Methodist Church on the evening of Sunday, December 19 from 4:30-7pm.
For virtual sign-on information, visit www.weminucheaudubon.org. We hope you’ll join in and contribute to community science.
For more information, please contact Keith Bruno at kbruno@audubon.org and Jean Zirnhelt at weminuche.audubon@gmail.com.
Keith Bruno is a community naturalist for the Audubon Society, serving southwest Colorado. He enjoys teaching about birds, native plants, pollinators, food security, snow science, and generally anything that gets him outdoors.