Christmas Bird Count with FBC Western Mass
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What is the Christmas Bird Count?
Once upon a time, hunters were enthusiastic about a holiday tradition known as the “Christmas Side Hunt”— with the winning team shooting the most birds and animals. In 1900, an Audubon Society ornithologist proposed a new holiday tradition— a bird census that would count birds during the holidays rather than hunt them. Thus began the longest-running citizen science project in history!
Today, the Christmas Bird Count is a global event that runs between December 14 and January 5 every year. It allows nature enthusiasts the opportunity to track the number and types of birds they observe in their communities. And it helps collect vital data that measures the health of bird populations and informs conservation action. On December 15, 2024, you can join the Feminist Bird Club of Western Mass for our local Christmas Bird Count— featuring a bird walk as well as a stationary bird count.
About the Event
The Anti-Racist Collective of Avid Birders invites you to join the Christmas Bird Count taking place in the Hadley/Amherst area on Sunday, December 15, 2024. This Christmas Bird Count is more than just a tally of species; it's a celebration of inclusivity, community, learning, and appreciation for the natural world. No matter your experience, abilities or preferences, there’s a place for you in this century-long tradition of bird conservation.
We especially want to hold space for Black, Indigenous and other People of Color, disabled and LGBTQIA+ folks, and new birders. Families are welcome! Our event is also for you if :
- You’ve never been on a Christmas Bird Count before and need a low-commitment way to try it out.
- You want to contribute to preserving our planet and bird populations for future generations.
- You’re hoping for a new holiday tradition to celebrate with chosen family.
- You’ve felt left out of traditional citizen science and conservation projects.
- You’re a nature enthusiast who needs another excuse to be outside this winter!
On Sunday, December 15, we will be birding in place at Bramble Hill Farm (Amherst) from 10 - 11 AM, and walking along a 1 mile loop trail from 11 AM - 1 PM.
Learn more about this event, parking and accessibility.