The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent. Anyone can participate, from beginning bird watchers to experts. It takes as little as 15 minutes on one day, or you can count for as long as you like each day of the event. It's free, fun, and easy-and it helps the birds."

Personal tools

 

Sponsors
Wild Birds Unlimited

Cornell Information Technologies

National Resources Conservation Service

National Science Foundation

 

 
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  Photo by Sybil Collins, SC, 2011 GBBC

Welcome to the GBBC!

We like to say that the Great Backyard Bird Count is as easy as 1-2-3. Here are the basics for anyone participating for the first time:

1. Count birds for at least 15 minutes on one or more days of the count. Count longer if you want to!

2. Tally the greatest number of individuals of each species that you see together at any one time. Optional: Print your regional bird checklist to get an idea of the kinds of birds you're likely to see in your area in February.

3. When you're finished, enter your checklists here on the website--enter a new list for each day and for each new location where you count. The deadline for data submission is March 1.

Other Resources:

* Downloadable instructions  (PDF)

* Instructional video

* FAQ section