Male Northern Cardinal. Photo by Dexter Patterson.

Christmas Bird Counts have been happening for over 120 years nationwide! New and experienced birders work together to visit various parks, backyards, and natural areas to count up all the species and individual birds we can find. The Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance coordinates the Madison-area CBC with help from over 100 volunteers throughout the community: the Madison-area Christmas Bird Count is citizen science in action.

We love new birders! As always, birders of all skill levels are welcome and we have child- and adult-sized binoculars available for those who’d like to borrow a pair.

Location

Location is TBD!

What to Expect

• As always, birders of all skill levels and ages are welcome! You can expect easy, but uneven trails.

• We have child- and adult-sized binoculars available for those who’d like to borrow a pair!

• Be sure to dress warmly since we’ll be outside for an extended time! We also suggest preparing for ice on pavement and dirt surfaces, so consider wearing ice trekkers or shoes with good traction.

• Since our events are public spaces, it is possible that you may appear in photos. Please also notify someone on our team if you prefer not to have your photo taken at an event.

Accessibility note: If tromping around during the depths of December isn't your scene, but you'd still like to participate in the counting fun, sign up to count birds at your home feeders OR count at the indoor bird-watching event at Olbrich Botanical Gardens via our friends at Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance!

---