Red-crowned Kinglet waiting to be counted.
Photo by Govinda Holtby
The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is the longest and largest running community science project in the world! The data is open to all and provides information for research, planning and conservation. Whidbey Island has two circles each with a diameter of 15 miles. Volunteers are placed in teams, meet in the morning typically 8 a.m. and bird until 4 p.m. (daylight hours). Each team identifies and counts every bird that they see or hear within their zone. Once again because of COVID we will be cautious, wearing masks and practicing social distancing. We will not be meeting for any post tabulations or potlucks.
South Whidbey Circle will take place on Thursday, December 29. Email Govinda Holtby to participate. The deadline to sign up is December 15. In case of ice and windy weather, the count will be Monday, January 2, 2023.
We need intermediate birders who know most birds. There is some room for beginning birders; this will be on a first-come-first-served basis; the sooner you sign up the more likely you will be in a team.
We are also looking for feeder watchers, to count birds from the comfort of your living room. See instructions here. Due to the high volume of feeder watchers this year be sure to follow the directions to a T. The rigor of the protocol is what makes this such a great community science survey.