Every year, bird enthusiasts around the world work side by side with scientists to contribute to a vast global database cataloguing where birds spend the winter months.
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count has fostered citizen bird science for a century, running from Dec. 14 to Jan. 5 every year. The count runs for one day in each location, 8 a.m. to sundown.
Dr. Stephen Ritchie, an associate professor of chemical and biological engineering, is the local Audubon CBC compiler. He is the volunteer responsible for compiling data gathered in the four quadrants of the Tuscaloosa area’s bird count and uploading those numbers to Audubon. He also helps new volunteers find a group and a quadrant to avoid possible double-counting.
In small groups, or sometimes working solo, the birders note the species, number of individuals, and quadrant of any bird spotted. Volunteers need only bring a pair of binoculars.
“All ages are welcome. All abilities are welcome,” Ritchie said. “Volunteers can join any group and leave when they need to.”
Kevin Shaw, a doctoral student in the J. Frank Barefield, Jr. College of Arts and Sciences, will miss this year’s CBC but has participated in the past, in Tuscaloosa and in other locales. Shaw is studying bird research methodology and has always loved birds, but he says specialized knowledge isn’t necessary to participate.
“If someone spots something and they don’t know what it is, others in the group will help identify it,” he said. “It’s a great way to get outside, see some cool birds and learn from experts while contributing to an international database.”
How to Join the Christmas Bird Count
The Tuscaloosa Christmas Bird Count will happen Monday, Dec. 15. The count is over at sundown, and all volunteers are invited to meet afterward at a group member’s home for the official compilation.
Anyone interested should contact Dr. Stephen Ritchie at 713-560-7257 or sritchie@eng.ua.edu.
Photos from previous years’ Christmas Bird Counts provided by Kevin Shaw.