Great Backyard Bird Count

What is it?

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a collaborative community science event hosted by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon, and Birds Canada. For as little as 15 minutes, you can join birders around the world to count and identify all of the birds you see in your backyard or location of choice. Every observation submitted is added to a global database, and results are shown in real time.

How does it help?

Birds are everywhere, they’re constantly on the move, and their populations are always changing. Tracking these populations is a monumental task for any scientist or organization, but the global community of birders happens to have the skills scientists need to develop a current database of bird populations around the world! Scientists, conservationists, and researchers can access GBBC data to more accurately make population estimates, track changes in populations, and see how birds are being affected by environmental changes.

When is it & how can I participate?

2024 Count: February 16-19

The GBBC is held annually for four days during February. Stay up to date with our events calendar to find out the dates for next year! Unlike the Christmas Bird Count, this is an individual event. All you need to do is show up to your favorite birding spot with a pen and paper, look and listen for the birds that show up for at least 15 minutes, and keep a tally of the individual birds you see, including species. When you’re done, submit your list on GBBC’s eBird app or site. If you’re new to birding, you might like to try the Cornell Lab’s Merlin Bird ID app for submitting your results and getting help with identification.

For more information on how to participate, visit birdcount.org!