Yousif Attia, Outreach & Content Specialist
The first Christmas Bird Count (CBC) took place on December 25, 1900, when ornithologist Frank M. Chapman proposed a new holiday tradition. Instead of the popular “Christmas Side Hunt,” where teams would compete to see who could shoot the most birds, Chapman suggested a census of birds. This idea was revolutionary, as it recognized the need to monitor bird populations in the face of ever-increasing human impact on the environment.
During that inaugural count, 27 participants across North America, including two in Canada, took part. Among them was E. Fannie Jones, from Toronto, Ontario, who became one of Canada’s first Christmas Bird Counters. On that cold Christmas afternoon, Fannie ventured out for four hours, recording 41 birds of four species. Her meticulous observations laid the groundwork for what would become a century (and a quarter) long tradition of bird counting.
Scan from Volume 3, 1901 Issue of Bird-Lore: results of the first two Canadian contributions to the Christmas Bird Census
As the CBC has evolved, so too has its role in addressing environmental issues, particularly climate change. For instance, studies have shown that many bird species are shifting their ranges northward in response to rising temperatures. This shift can disrupt ecosystems and lead to mismatches between the migration timing of birds and their food sources.
By participating in the CBC, you not only contribute to scientific research but also become an advocate for the protection of our natural world. The legacy of the Christmas Bird Count is a testament to the power of community action and the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.
CBC Compiler, Bruce Mackenzie imparts his knowledge to the next generation of Citizen Scientists. Photo: Bronwen Tregunno
The upcoming season begins December 14, 2024 through January 5, 2025. EVERYONE is welcome and encouraged to participate. Go to our website to learn more about how you can join in the tradition and read highlights from last season!
Would you or someone you know like to participate but have accessibility challenges that limit your participation. Ask your count compiler if a partly-accessible CBC is being offered, or if they would be open to holding a partly-accessible CBC following guidelines set out by Birdability.
Birds Canada oversees the Christmas Bird Count program nationally, in partnership with the National Audubon Society. The program is driven largely by volunteer effort and supporter donations. Learn more about how to get involved and support this effort below.
