Eastern Shore Birders Gear Up for Annual Christmas Bird Counts

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.

About the Author

Wayne Creed

Administrator

View All Posts