The Christmas Bird Count: Connecting National Parks and Conservation
Shea HennessyEvery winter, bird enthusiasts across the country take part in one of the longest-running citizen science projects in the world: the U.S. Fish & Wildlife’s annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC). This year marks the 125th anniversary of this cherished tradition, which not only provides an opportunity for people to connect with nature but also plays a vital role in conservation efforts. Many National Parks serve as key locations for the count, making them integral to this important initiative.
What is the Christmas Bird Count?
The Christmas Bird Count began in 1900 as an alternative to a traditional holiday hunting practice known as the "Christmas Side Hunt." Instead of hunting birds, conservation-minded individuals, led by ornithologist Frank Chapman, counted them. Today, the CBC is a massive, community-driven effort that takes place between December 14 and January 5 each year. Volunteers, known as citizen scientists, spend a day recording all the birds they see in designated areas, contributing valuable data that helps scientists monitor bird populations and environmental health.
National Parks as a Haven for Birdwatching
National Parks are some of the most biodiverse areas in the country, providing ideal habitats for countless bird species. These protected areas not only attract resident birds but also serve as critical stopovers for migratory species. The Christmas Bird Count frequently includes National Parks as key survey sites due to their ecological significance and accessibility for birdwatchers.
From the wetlands of Everglades National Park to the desert landscapes of Saguaro National Park, participants have the opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitats while enjoying the beauty of these preserved spaces. Parks like Yellowstone and Acadia offer unique settings to witness birds in winter, such as bald eagles soaring above snow-covered rivers or flocks of common redpolls flitting through frosty landscapes.
2024 Christmas Bird Count Events at National Parks
Saturday, December 14
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lees Ferry, AZ
Introduce the next generation to birding! This half-day event features guided bird counts, hands-on activities, and a Tabulation Celebration for young birders.
Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
Join families, amateur birders, and scientists to count local bird populations. Advance registration is required with Ranger Andy Van Camp at (219) 395-1882 or via email.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, AZ/NV
Join NPS biologists for a bird count at Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. Beginners are welcome! Register via email at LAKE_volunteer_coordinator@nps.gov or call 702-293-8711. Free park entry for registered participants!
Sunday, December 15
Gateway National Recreation Area, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, NY
Help with the Christmas Bird Count alongside a park ranger. Binoculars provided. No fees or reservations required.
Wind Cave National Park, SD
Join the count from 7:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Routes cover Wind Cave NP and nearby forests. Bring warm clothes, lunch, and binoculars. Contact Noah Robison at (605) 745-1149 or via email for details.
Saturday, December 21
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, WY
Pick up bird count packets at 7:00 a.m. at the Cal S. Taggart Visitor Center in Lovell, WY. Return completed packets by 3:00 p.m. Call 307-548-5406 or email Christy Fleming to reserve a packet.
The Christmas Bird Count is more than just a yearly event—it's a tradition that highlights the vital role our national parks play in conserving wildlife and fostering a love for the natural world. From spotting rare species to contributing to important ecological research, these parks offer countless opportunities to connect with nature and give back to the planet. Explore, protect, and honor these incredible spaces—and bring the spirit of conservation into your home with our National Park Posters and Postcards. Together, we can support the parks and the wildlife that call them home.
Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist with a single passion for our National Parks! Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph each of our national parks and to create WPA-style posters to celebrate the amazing landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history that embody America’s Best Idea!
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