Bird count teams have binoculars, scopes ready

The annual Christmas Bird Count has been going on for 113 years and has been a seasonal activity in the Campbell River area for 41 years.

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The Christmas Bird Count in Campbell River is on Saturday, Dec. 29 from sun-up to sun-down.

The 113th global Christmas Bird Count is from Dec. 14 to Jan. 5. There have been 41 counts in the Campbell River area – the first in 1972.

There are 12 teams of two to six counters. Most of the count areas include both upland and oceanfront areas. Each team has at least one expert who can identify most bird species in the area.  The teams then compare notes at a wrap-up get-together, usually in a local pub or restaurant.

Counters can also contribute bird count data by taking part in the backyard feeder count on the same day.

This involves staying indoors and checking the feeder periodically during the day, recording the species and number of each species at different times. Report the greatest number of each species at one time.

Everyone can also be “on-the-alert” during the count week which is from Dec. 26 to Jan. 2 for species missed on the count day.

Results go to Bird Studies Canada which in turn contributes to the Audubon database and helps shape conservation strategies.

If you enjoy bird-watching and would you like to participate in this year’s count as a novice or expert and to meet fellow bird-lovers, please contact Luisa Richardson at 250-923-9918/Lu_rich@shaw.ca or Colin Buss at 250-850-0884/ busster@telus.net for more information.