The Great Backyard Bird Count: Bringing People Together Across the Globe

The earth is an amazingly big place!

So imagine how ambitious it would be to attempt to count all of the birds across the globe during a single four day event. Crazy! Right?

Well, not anymore. Thanks to the annual Great Backyard Bird Count.

The global community will come together February 16-19, 2024 for the love of birds. This is when more than 380,000 bird watchers from approximately 190 countries will participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) to gather real-time data on more than 7,000 of the world’s bird species.

The GBBC is the only scientific research study to utilize citizen volunteers to collect data about global bird populations and movements. These data ultimately contribute to a better understanding of birds’ lives and the many factors that are impacting their welfare. Just imagine how rewarding it will feel, knowing that by counting the birds at your feeders, you can be a part of a global community that is aiding scientists in making discoveries that will ultimately help birds to survive and thrive.

For example, from GBBC data we have learned that climate changes are moving some birds to new northern territories such as Anna’s Hummingbirds, Carolina Wrens, Tufted Titmice, and Northern Cardinals.

It has also validated what we know about the influence weather has on bird feeding activity. GBBC participants often note they see fewer birds at their feeders during relatively warm weather, compared to colder years.

So, as you share your backyard birds with the world, your GBBC data will help drive important research across the globe…and by the way it’s fun, too! This is a perfect family activity, tailor-made for kids, grandkids, or even classrooms. Visit birdcount.org to learn how easy it is for you to become a GBBC Citizens Scientist.

The Great Backyard Bird Count, bringing people together through birds and making the world just a little bit better for them, too.

Wild Birds Unlimited is proud to be the founding and major sponsor of the Great Backyard Bird Count.