On Saturday, December 14, bird enthusiasts from the area will join the 125th annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC)—a global citizen science tradition—and mark the 40th year of the event coordinated by the Moab Bird Club. Moab’s first Christmas Bird Count took place in 1984 with just twelve participants.
This year, local citizen scientists will comb through diverse habitats across the Moab Valley, Castle Valley, Spanish Valley, and Colorado River corridors to tally birds for this vital ecological survey. The data collected will contribute to a global database, helping scientists better understand winter bird populations and track changes over time.
The CBC is the world’s longest-running Citizen Science program, dating back to 1899. It provides invaluable insights into bird populations and helps shape conservation efforts, particularly as scientists study the impacts of climate change on wildlife.
Participants are divided into teams, each led by experienced birders, to record both the species and the number of birds observed. Novices are warmly welcomed and will be paired with seasoned birdwatchers, making this event accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level.
To participate, contact Marcy Hafner at marcymoab@yahoo.com.
To find out about Moab Bird Club meetings and activities, contact Marian Eason at 435-
259-6447.
