back yard bird counting

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is just around the corner, offering a fantastic opportunity for adventure-seeking grandparents and budding birders to connect with their grandchildren and foster a love for nature. This annual event invites people of all ages, especially beginners, to join in the global celebration of birds right from their own backyards. By participating, you contribute valuable data to scientists studying bird populations, aiding in bird conservation efforts worldwide. The GBBC is beginner-friendly and welcomes birders of all levels, providing a unique bonding experience for grandparents and their grandchildren.

To get started, create a welcoming space for birds in your backyard with feeders and birdbaths. All you need for birding are a pair of binoculars, a bird identification guide, and a notebook to record your sightings. Take advantage of technology by using bird identification apps like Merlin Bird ID or Audubon Bird Guide. Involve your grandchildren in the counting process, teach them about different bird species, and capture the moments to share with the GBBC community online. Join the global community of birders by participating in online forums and social media groups dedicated to the GBBC. The Great Backyard Bird Count is not just an event, but a journey into the fascinating world of birds that transcends generations.

While watching birds at my feeder today, I saw a couple Western Bluebirds. Not unexpected, but not something I see everyday in my backyard. A real surprise would be the male Phainopepla I saw a month or so ago, but that’s a story for a different time.

Anyway, I started thinking how easy it is to bird from my own yard. Living on a canyon helps a lot, but the diversity of wildlife we have in San Diego County plays a big role too. I started remembering some of the many birding trips I’ve taken to place like McAllen, Texas; Tucson, Arizona; and San Felipe, Baja California, just to name a few. Then I remembered how easy it is to actually bird from my own yard.

In less than a week, Audubon’s Great Backyard Bird Count will take place again from February 12 to February 15, 2021. I’ve done it a number of times from my own yard, but also while I was walking the dog at the lake. It doesn’t matter how good a birder you are; anyone can participate. All you need to do watch birds for as little as 15 minutes or longer. You can do it once or several times a day over the four-day period from any location. Then just report your sightings at birdcount.org so the numbers can be included in the count. Check out the website for more information and to get the latest promotional and educational resources.

Now who’s ready to start counting birds?