125th Audubon Christmas Bird Count looking for birders

It’s that time of year again! ‘Tis the season when avid - and amateur - birders are asked to pull out the bird book and binoculars and count those feathered visitors.

Between Dec. 14, 2024, and Jan. 5, 2025, the birders of North Durham will join forces with birders from over 2,300 locations in the western hemisphere for the National Audubon’s Christmas Count. Started in New York and Toronto 125 years ago, the tradition continues, with thousands of bird watchers fighting the elements to complete the massive citizen science census of various species of birds. In North Durham, Beaverton’s bird count celebrates 50 years while Uxbridge hits its 20th year.

North Durham Nature (NDN) says that, in Uxbridge, it is once again be aiming for a count of 50 species total.

“If you live in Uxbridge or the western side of Scugog, your feeder may be in the circle and you can report in,” says Derek Connelly from NDN.

Those willing to venture out into the field for this year’s count are asked to join one of two teams. The count day for Uxbridge/Scugog is Friday, Dec. 27, and those interested in counting in this area are asked to contact Derek Connelly at ndnature7@gmail.com

Monday, Dec. 30, is count day for Beaverton circle, and interested birders are asked to contact John Mclean at jsmclean33@gmail.com to join this team.