Birds

118th Christmas Bird Count

Its the most wonderful time of the birding year

Christmas Bird Count
Counting Snow Geese during the Lonoke Christmas Bird Count Photo: Kelly Chitwood

Now in its 118th year, Audubon's Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is a citizen science program and the nation’s longest running bird survey. Each 15-mile diameter count circle is run on a particular day during the CBC season, December 14 through January 5. Each count's Compiler sets the date and assigns groups of volunteers to sections of the circle. On count day participants count all birds they encounter within their assigned section. Birders of any skill level are welcome. It’s a great opportunity to learn from experienced birders. You can bird for as long as you like.

Have no doubts that your participation is meaningful – thousands of scientific studies have used CBC data, including Audubon’s Birds & Climate Change Report.

There are 27 count circles across the state. Contact State Compiler Leif Anderson to find a count near you. Participation is free. Make your birding count for the birds!

How you can help, right now