Uncover the Beauty of Birds: Join the Great Backyard Bird Count!

Understanding the Joy of the Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is not just a basic activity; it's a heartwarming tradition that encourages individuals of all ages to connect with their outdoor environments. Held every February, this annual event invites people across the globe to participate in citizen science by counting birds in their backyards for a minimum of 15 minutes. During the recent count from February 13-16, participants from Audubon Florida shared joy and excitement as they logged sightings of various bird species both far and near to their homes.

Birdwatching: An Activity for Everyone!

Whether you live in a bustling urban area or a serene suburban setting, birdwatching during the GBBC presents opportunities to discover the beauty of nature. For Audubon Florida staffers, their birdwatching adventures took them to diverse locations, from the sandy beaches of the Panhandle to the lush oak forests of Ocala National Forest. Here, even school-age children can take part, making it an educational experience that can inspire a love for nature in the young. For example, Karina Jiménez, a Communications Associate, spotted six Common Grackles and two White Ibises while enjoying time in an outdoor shopping center.

The Thrill of Discovering New Species

Many participants, including Audubon Florida staff members, were thrilled to spot unique species. Zach Matchinski, a Shorebird Biologist, journeyed from his home in the Panhandle to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge in Alabama, where he celebrated the sighting of stunning cranes along with a variety of other birds like the Northern Shoveler and Northern Cardinal. This thrill of discovery strengthens our connections to the environment and can lead to increased enthusiasm about conservation efforts.

Supporting Bird Conservation Through Simple Action

The data collected during the GBBC serves as crucial information for scientists at Audubon, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and Birds Canada. By submitting their sightings via the eBird app, participants contribute to critical insights that help track bird populations and understand environmental changes affecting our feathered friends. This community effort provides valuable data that can lead to impactful conservation strategies!

Broadening Our Perspectives: A Community Event

With participants logging sightings from various locations, the GBBC serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement. Whether it's an out-of-town visitor who spotted a Sora or experienced birders sharing discoveries of the elusive Florida Scrub-Jay, the stories of shared experiences highlight the excitement of the event. Collectively, these efforts foster a sense of responsibility to protect our avian population, underscoring the broader impact individuals can have on conservation.

Why You Should Join the Next Great Backyard Bird Count

For those who are hesitant, there is little to fear! Birdwatching requires minimal preparation and can be done in any outdoor space. Whether counting birds in a wild setting or simply keeping an eye on what visits your backyard feeder, you can help scientists better understand our changing environment. This unique blend of science and leisure not only enhances your awareness of local wildlife but also enriches our collective understanding of nature's wonders, making each sighting important.

Imagine the happiness of watching a Broad-winged Hawk rest in your backyard, or seeing a vibrant Eastern Bluebird. Each count during the GBBC serves not just science but the students, families, and communities building connections with nature. The next count will occur next February – mark your calendars and prepare to embrace the simple joys of birdwatching!

Join Audubon Florida: Be part of the Change!

If you’re keen to learn more about local birds or want to support vital conservation initiatives, consider engaging with your local Audubon chapter. Together, we can promote stewardship of our environment and ensure that future generations experience the joy we find in birdwatching today. Sign up for newsletters and updates to stay informed about local events and opportunities for participation.