The Audubon Christmas Bird Count with the San Juan Islands Audubon Society has been rescheduled to Jan. 3.

Every year’s count brings something different, whether it’s climbing over downed trees after a big wind storm, watching a magnificent flight of Pacific Loons, or finding a flock of western bluebirds! There are many ways to participate, including counting down your road or backyard or going out with a group for part of the day. You don’t have to be an expert but you do need enthusiasm for nature. The counts can be done on any of the San Juan Islands.

A Bit of History

In 1900, ornithologist Frank Chapman, along with other conservationists, were disturbed at the slaughter of birds in the annual holiday event called the “side hunt.” The team that shot the most birds and other small animals was the winner. As a protest, Chapman organized 27 friends in 25 locations on Christmas day to count live animals instead of shooting them.

Today, hundreds of people will choose a 24-hour time period during the holiday season to record every bird seen or heard in their designated 15-mile diameter circle – about 177 square miles.

So why is this data important? Bird populations are indicators of the overall health of the environment. As the database continues to grow and becomes long-term, it is possible to monitor the abundance and distribution patterns of wintering bird populations. Visit www.audubon.org/bird/cbc to see results from this area, make charts, and look at trends for specific species.

Even if you don’t count, please let the Audubon Society know if you see any of the following species the week of the count or before the count, so the bird watchers can look for them: small hawks, mourning doves, owls, hummingbirds, sapsuckers, shrikes, jays, and western bluebirds. If you live on the shoreline, consider looking for shorebirds and marine birds.

Many routes need better coverage, so call today to see what is available. For more information call Barbara Jensen at 378-3068.