Birders across Virginia’s Eastern Shore are preparing for a busy month as several local Christmas Bird Counts (CBC) approach. The long-running Audubon tradition, now in its 125th year, brings together volunteers nationwide to help track winter bird populations and contribute to one of the world’s largest and most influential community-science projects.
Local organizers are encouraging both seasoned birders and enthusiastic newcomers to take part. Anyone interested in joining a count is asked to contact the compiler for their preferred location. Participants are assigned to teams that survey specific areas within a 15-mile count circle.
Count circles and additional details can be viewed on the National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count website and mapping tool.
Four counts are scheduled on the Eastern Shore:
- Wachapreague — Sunday, December 14
Compiler: Mario Balitbit
Email: mariobalitbit@gmail.com - Nassawadox — Saturday, December 20
Compiler: Joette Borzik
Email: vabirdmom@gmail.com - Chincoteague — Monday, December 29
Compiler: Kevin Holcomb
Email: kevin_holcomb@fws.gov - Cape Charles — Tuesday, December 30
Compiler: Ellison Orcutt
Email: Mr.ellyo@gmail.com
Organizers note that the counts take place regardless of weather and typically begin early in the morning. The data collected each winter helps scientists better understand population trends, climate impacts and long-term species health along the Atlantic Flyway.
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