There’s usually a biblical attachment to census stories at this time of year. But for legions of bird fanciers, it’s a time to get out and continue their hobby — bird watching — at the annual Ladner Christmas Bird Count.
According to Bird Studies Canada, more than 12,000 volunteers across the country — more than 60,000 continent-wide — will be counting birds from Dec. 14 to Jan. 4.
Locally, birders from Ladner, South Delta, Tsawwassen, Point Roberts (Washington) and south Richmond will be part of the regional count on Dec. 27, many rising before dawn to participate in the world’s longest running wildlife census that began in 1900.
Last year, the bird count was the judged to be number one in Canada by recording 143 species of birds on count day.
With so many birds to view, volunteer counters are always in need. Local birders are encouraged to join in the count.
There are two ways they can participate:
- By joining a small team of birders as they drive and/or walk around their area counting all the birds they see. Not a lot of experience is required since drivers, recorders, and spotters are all in demand.
- You can stay home and count the birds that come to your feeders or in your yard. Bird Studies Canada is also interested in those potential volunteers who have Anna’s hummingbirds coming to their feeders.
According to organizers, the event is not just about counting birds but the data from the Christmas Bird Count is at the heart of hundreds peer-reviewed scientific studies and inform decisions by wildlife managers across Canada.
It’s also important because birds are early indicators of environmental threats to habitats they share with humans.
If you are interested in participating, contact the count coordinator, Jude Grass, at 604 538 8774 or [email protected] for more information.
