Zoo Atlanta’s Birds, Backyards, and Beyond Contest
The Great Backyard Bird Count
In advance of one of the largest annual migrations for native birds in North America, the Audubon Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual event in which people observe and report birds seen in their areas. Taking place from February 17 through February 20, 2023, this is the largest biodiversity-focused citizen science project in the world.
Birds, Backyards, and Beyond Contest
To encourage participation in the Great Backyard Bird Count, Zoo Atlanta will host the Birds, Backyards, and Beyond Contest, opening at 10 a.m. EST on February 17, 2023, and continuing through 11:59 p.m. EST on February 24, 2023. To participate, entrants should visit the Audubon Great Backyard Bird Count website for information and an eBird checklist, available via the eBird mobile app or the eBird website. Submit an eBird checklist via email to bird@zooatlanta.org to be entered into a random drawing for one of two Grand Prizes.
Special activities at Zoo Atlanta
Stop by Zoo Atlanta on February 18 and February 19 to enjoy education stations devoted to getting started with the Great Backyard Bird Count. Activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are free with general admission. Learn more and get full Birds, Backyards, and Beyond Contest details here at zooatlanta.org.
Join the Great Backyard Bird Count!
The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of bird populations. The GBBC is a joint project of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, with Canadian partner Bird Studies Canada and sponsors Wild Birds Unlimited and the World Series of Birding.
The GBBC was launched in 1998 and has grown to become the largest online citizen-science project in the world. During the count, tens of thousands of participants from around the world submit their bird sightings online at birdcount.org. The data collected helps scientists track the health of bird populations and better understand the impacts of climate change.
Why Participate?
The GBBC is a great way to connect with nature and get involved in citizen science. By participating in the count, you will be helping scientists track the health of bird populations and better understand the impacts of climate change. Your data will be used to help inform conservation decisions and protect birds and their habitats.
How to Participate
The GBBC is open to everyone, regardless of experience or location. All you need is an interest in birds and access to the internet.
To participate, simply sign up at birdcount.org and follow the instructions. You can count birds in your backyard, local park, or anywhere else you happen to be. You can count for as little as 15 minutes or as long as you like.
Once you’ve finished counting, enter your data online. You can also upload photos of the birds you’ve seen and share your sightings with other participants.
Tips for Counting
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your bird count:
• Take your time. Don’t rush. Take the time to really observe the birds and their behaviors.
• Bring binoculars. Binoculars will help you get a better view of the birds and make it easier to identify them.
• Keep a field guide handy. A field guide will help you identify the birds you see.
• Make a list. Make a list of the birds you see and keep track of how many of each species you see.
• Take notes. Write down any interesting behaviors or observations you make.
The Benefits of Participating
Participating in the GBBC is a great way to get outside, connect with nature, and contribute to science. You’ll also be helping to protect birds and their habitats.
By taking part in the count, you’ll be joining thousands of other birders around the world in creating a real-time snapshot of bird populations. Your data will be used to inform conservation decisions and help protect birds and their habitats.
So don’t wait — join the Great Backyard Bird Count today!
