It’s the world’s largest and longest-lasting wildlife survey, started in 1900 by volunteers. And Vernon is keeping up its part in the tradition.
The North Okanagan Naturalists’ Club returns with the annual Christmas Bird Count Sunday, Dec. 17.
“Come join us for a day of fun outdoors counting birds,” the club said, inviting one and all to take part. “Each year, volunteers set out to count the wintering birds in our area. A similar count occurs in most major cities around the globe.”
In Vernon, birds found within a 12 kilometre radius of the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre (VDPAC) will be counted.
Data collected is inserted into the world’s largest and longest-lasting wildlife survey that began in 1900 by volunteers.
“We invite all interested people to participate, either by joining us in the field or by counting birds at your feeder on the 17th.”
To join, contact coordinator Don Cecile at dcecile@shaw.ca and he will provide you with an opportunity to join other experienced naturalists for a day outdoors.
For those wanting to participate by noting the birds at their feeder:
1. Make sure your feeder falls within the 12 km radius from VDPAC.
2. Make note of the highest total you see at one time for each species that visits your feeder (no need to keep track of the coming-and-going)
3. Report your sightings from Dec. 17 to dcecile@shaw.ca
Vernon has been conducting this winter census of birds since 1950 with over 160 species recorded over the years.
Some notable high counts include: 3,623 Canada geese; 5,632 mallards; 1,888 California quail; 11,133 Bohemian waxwing: 1,534 red-winged blackbirds and 1,841 house finch.
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