Imagine, if you can, a Christmas tradition that does not involve shopping, check-out lines or credit cards, but is still considered a gift.
One that for over a century has pulled people outside, into fresh air, and turned small bands of acolytes, sometimes strangers in the morning, into close friends over the course of a day, or even just an afternoon.
The National Audubon Society’s 117th annual Christmas Bird Count is underway, and birders in La Plata, Montezuma and Archuleta Counties are taking part. They are also looking for volunteers to join them, no experience necessary.
The count is much more than a winter social outing for birdwatchers. Data compiled by the survey, based in each location on an established 15-mile wide diameter circle, comprises one of the largest sources of information used by ornithologists and biologists to determine how bird species are faring, not just this year, but over time.
And the amount of data, and the landscape it covers, is impressive. A look at the map on Audubon’s website (visit audubon.org/join-christmas-bird-count) reveals that Christmas counts blanket the continental U.S., with dozens more set for southern Canada, Central America and the Caribbean.
The count, which includes both species and the total number of birds seen in a day, is based on a specific methodology; participants need to make arrangements in advance with a “circle compiler” responsible for each circle. That is especially important for beginners, as they will be sent out with experienced birders.
Susan Allerton ([email protected]) is organizing the count in La Plata County, which takes place on Sunday. The group will gather at the Town Plaza Durango Joe’s at 7:30 a.m.
The Montezuma County count will take place on Dec. 26, and Jason St. Pierre ([email protected]) is leading that effort. Contact him to participate.
Pagosa-area counters can also take part. That event will be Saturday. Contact Dottie George ([email protected]) for details.
Joining the count can be a meaningful addition to your holidays. It can also be a great way to counter, for some people, what can at times be a lonely and most insular holiday.
We urge people to take part.
