What Scientists Have Learned From 125 Years Of Bird Counts
Jan 6, 2025
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Brooke Bateman, Senior Director of Climate and Community Science at the National Audubon Society, and Janet Ng, a wildlife biologist at Environment and Climate Change Canada, dive into the fascinating world of bird counts. They highlight the 125-year legacy of the Christmas Bird Count, exploring how this community-driven science initiative helps track bird populations and their reactions to climate change. The duo discusses alarming trends like species range shifts and population declines, while emphasizing the vital role of local birdwatchers in conservation efforts.
The Christmas Bird Count has evolved from 27 participants in 1900 to over 80,000 volunteers today, highlighting community engagement in birdwatching and conservation.
Data from the Christmas Bird Count reveals significant shifts in bird populations, such as the migration changes of Western Grebes due to climate change.
Deep dives
History of the Christmas Bird Count
The Christmas Bird Count began in 1900 when Frank Chapman proposed an alternate tradition to the holiday hunting practices, encouraging individuals to conduct a bird census instead. Initially, 27 birdwatchers participated across 25 locations, but the event has evolved significantly over the years. Today, more than 80,000 volunteers participate across the Western Hemisphere, marking the count as the longest-running community science program in the world. This shift from hunting to counting birds has allowed scientists to gather valuable data about bird populations and behaviors, fostering a deeper connection between the public and nature.
Importance of Bird Count Data
The data collected from the Christmas Bird Count is crucial for scientific research and understanding bird populations over time. This long-term data set allows researchers to analyze species trends both continentally and regionally, identifying shifts in bird populations, particularly in relation to climate change. For example, changes in the wintering locations of Western Grebes indicated a dramatic migration shift of over 900 kilometers due to environmental factors affecting their food sources. Such insights are vital for conservation efforts and highlight the impact of climate change on bird species across North America.
Community and Engagement in Bird Counting
Participating in the Christmas Bird Count fosters a sense of community and connection among bird enthusiasts, regardless of skill level. Newcomers are often paired with experienced birders, promoting learning and engagement in the activity. The event not only allows individuals to enjoy a day of birdwatching but also contributes significantly to scientific research, making it accessible and rewarding for all. The tradition builds camaraderie, with participants often gathering afterward to share their experiences and findings, creating lasting connections in the birding community.
This winter marks the 125th year of Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count, in which bird nerds across the Western Hemisphere venture outside to record all the birds they see and hear.
Scientists use that data to understand how birds are faring, where they’re moving, and what they’re up to when it’s not breeding season. With 125 years under its belt, the Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running community science program in the world.
How do scientists use this data? And what have they learned in those 125 years? Ira Flatow talks with Dr. Brooke Bateman, senior director of climate and community science at the National Audubon Society, and Dr. Janet Ng, wildlife biologist at Environment and Climate Change Canada in Regina, Canada.
Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.