Christmas Bird Count

What is it?

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is an annual early winter bird census led by the National Audubon Society and is considered the longest running citizen science survey in the world. During the count, volunteers across the Western Hemisphere tally as many species and number of individual birds as they can over a 24-hour period on one calendar day. With count circles coordinated through the National Audubon Society, the CBC provides a census of birds in North America and a longitudinal look at how bird populations are fairing over time.

How does it help?

The data we collect provide critical information that researchers, conservation biologists, and wildlife agencies use to guide conservation efforts. When viewed in conjunction with other longitudinal surveys, the CBC provides a long term view of bird populations that is crucial for developing strategies to protect birds and their habitats. So far, CBC data has been used by the National Audubon Society to guide conservation efforts, incorporated into the EPA’s climate change indicators, and included in national reports on bird populations by US Fish & Wildlife.

When is it & how can I participate?

The national CBC occurs every year between December 14th and January 5th. We are lucky to boast three count circles in our area: Tillamook Bay, Lincoln City, and Yaquina Bay. Read below to find out more about the counts at each location and how to register!

Please note: this is a FREE event at all locations, but registration is required!

Registration Information

Tillamook Bay CBC

Saturday, December 16th 2023

The Tillamook Bay CBC is one of the oldest counts in the State. The count circle stretches from Netarts north to Rockaway Beach and east to include the Kilchis and much more (see map PDF). If you love bird watching in this rich coastal habitat, contact us! You will be assigned to a team of field counters with a specific area to cover. All experience levels are welcome!

Field counters need to dress for Oregon coast weather. Mud boots or sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring your own optical equipment. You will also want to bring a lunch or something to snack on throughout the day, plus plenty of water. (Most sector leaders do not stop for lunch.)

If that sounds too strenuous, or you just don't have the full day to spend, you can participate as a backyard/feeder counter if you live in the Tillamook bay area.

Please contact Allison Anholt at Allison.anholt@gmail.com to register.

Lincoln City CBC

Sunday, December 17th 2023

This is Lincoln City’s 14th annual Christmas Bird Count! The Lincoln City count circle, like all others, is 15 miles in diameter. We've divided ours into seven sectors (see map). If you love birds, join us in the field or count birds in your own backyard.

Field counters need to dress for Oregon coast weather. Mud boots or sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring your own optical equipment. You will also want to bring a lunch or something to snack on throughout the day, plus plenty of water. (Most sector leaders do not stop for lunch.)

If that sounds too strenuous, or you just don't have the full day to spend, you can participate as a backyard/feeder counter if you live in the Lincoln City area (see map). We will provide a checklist and guidelines.

Please send a message to info@lincolncityaudubon.org to register!

Yaquina Bay CBC

Friday, December 29th 2023

The Yaquina Bay count is within a 15 mile diameter circle that extends from Yaquina Head southward to Seal Rocks and eastward to Toledo. This count covers a variety of diverse habitats along the Oregon Coast.

If you’re interested in participating, fill out this form and contact kaifrueh2@gmail.com with any questions.

Christmas Bird Count FAQ

What is a Count Circle?

It is a designated 15-mile (24-km) diameter circle in which birds are surveyed each year on count day.

Where can I count?

If your home is within the boundaries of one of the count circles (see map), you can stay at home and report the birds at your feeders, in your yard, or flying overhead on count day. If you want to join a team in the field, you need to register with the CBC coordinators using the contact information provided above, or see our calendar page.

When can I count?

Any time from midnight to midnight on the date of the count in your area.

What equipment or tools do I need?

A pair of binoculars, a checklist of local birds, and a good bird book. Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America is one example. In Lincoln City, a simple checklist will be emailed to you prior to count day.

How do I report?

It’s easy! If you are counting in your backyard, we will provide you with a simple checklist that you can fill out and email to the CBC coordinator listing each species (e.g., Chestnut-backed Chickadee), how many you saw and your time (see “My count” and “My time” below). If you are with a team in the field, your team lead will have a checklist for the team.

My count:

Look for the maximum number of each species visible (or within earshot) at any one time. For instance, if you see 5 chickadees on your feeder at once, and a few minutes later a single chickadee flies by after the 5 are gone, don’t add another to your count.

My time:

Report how long you spend counting birds. If you count on-and-off during the day, keep a tally of time spent so you have an accurate total at the end of the day.

Want more information?

Visit Portland Audubon’s website to learn more about the history and impact of the Christmas Bird Count!