What is the Great Backyard Bird Count?

 

Outline

1. Introduction

   • Overview of the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC)
   • Importance of citizen science in bird conservation
   • Who organizes and participates in GBBC?

2. History of the Great Backyard Bird Count

   • When and why it was started
   • Organizations behind the initiative (Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Audubon Society)
   • Evolution of the event over the years

3. How Does the Great Backyard Bird Count Work?

   • Step-by-step process of participation
   • Counting and recording birds
   • Submitting data online

4. Why is the Great Backyard Bird Count Important?

   • Contribution to bird conservation
   • Tracking bird population trends
   • How the data helps scientists and researchers

5. When and Where Does the GBBC Take Place?

   • Dates of the event each year
   • Who can participate? (global participation)
   • How to get involved from different locations

6. How to Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count

   • Essential tools for bird counting
   • How to identify birds
   • Apps and online tools for submitting observations

7. Common Birds to Look for During GBBC

   • Popular backyard birds in North America
   • Differences in bird species by region
   • How to recognize bird calls and behaviors

8. Tips for a Successful Bird Count

   • Best times to observe birds
   • Setting up a bird-friendly backyard
   • Using binoculars and field guides effectively

9. Role of Technology in GBBC

   • eBird and other online platforms
   • How AI and data analytics help in bird conservation
   • The role of social media in spreading awareness

10. Impact of GBBC on Bird Conservation

• How collected data influences conservation policies
• Success stories and conservation efforts resulting from GBBC findings

11. GBBC vs. Other Bird Counts

• How it compares to Christmas Bird Count and Project FeederWatch
• Unique features of GBBC

12. Educational Benefits of GBBC

• How it helps children and beginners learn about birds
• School and community involvement

13. Challenges and Limitations of GBBC

• Accuracy concerns in citizen science data
• Encouraging more participation in underrepresented regions

14. How to Get Started with Birdwatching Beyond GBBC

• Year-round birdwatching activities
• Joining local birding groups

15. Conclusion and Future of GBBC

• The growing impact of the GBBC
• How to stay engaged in bird conservation efforts

What is the Great Backyard Bird Count?

Introduction

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a global, citizen-driven initiative where bird enthusiasts of all skill levels come together to count and report the birds they observe in their surroundings. This annual event is crucial for tracking bird populations, migration patterns, and environmental changes.

Since its launch, the GBBC has grown into a worldwide movement, engaging thousands of people in birdwatching and data collection. By simply spending time in their backyards, parks, or nature reserves, participants contribute to one of the largest bird conservation efforts in the world.

But why does this event matter? Birds are environmental indicators—changes in their populations can signal shifts in climate, habitat destruction, and ecosystem health. The GBBC provides scientists with valuable insights that help guide conservation efforts.

History of the Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count was founded in 1998 as a collaborative project between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, with support from Bird Studies Canada. The idea was simple: engage the public in collecting real-time data on bird populations to support scientific research.

Over the years, the event has expanded beyond North America, allowing participants from all over the world to join. In 2013, the GBBC became a global event, allowing researchers to compare bird populations across different continents.

This expansion was made possible by advancements in technology, particularly the eBird platform, which enables birdwatchers to log their observations quickly and accurately. Today, the GBBC continues to grow, with millions of birds counted annually by enthusiastic citizen scientists.

How Does the Great Backyard Bird Count Work?

The GBBC is designed to be simple and accessible for everyone, from casual birdwatchers to seasoned ornithologists. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose a Location – Participants select a place to observe birds, whether it’s a backyard, local park, or nature trail.
2. Observe for at Least 15 Minutes – Count the birds you see within a set time frame. Observations can be recorded over multiple days.
3. Identify and Record Birds – Use a bird guide, binoculars, or bird identification apps to recognize species.
4. Submit Observations – Data is entered into the eBird platform or the GBBC website.
5. Review and Compare – Participants can see how their observations contribute to a larger global dataset.

This method allows researchers to gather consistent data on bird populations, migration patterns, and environmental changes.

Why is the Great Backyard Bird Count Important?

Birds play a critical role in ecosystems—they control insect populations, pollinate plants, and help in seed dispersal. Monitoring their numbers helps scientists understand environmental health. Here’s why GBBC is crucial:

• Tracks Population Trends – Helps researchers determine if certain bird species are increasing or declining.
• Detects Environmental Changes – Changes in bird numbers may indicate habitat loss, climate change, or food availability shifts.
• Engages the Public in Science – GBBC fosters a love for nature and encourages conservation efforts at a grassroots level.

The information collected during GBBC has been used in numerous scientific studies, policy changes, and conservation efforts, proving that small actions can lead to significant impacts.

When and Where Does the GBBC Take Place?

The Great Backyard Bird Count happens annually in February, typically over a four-day period. The specific dates may change slightly each year, but it usually falls on President’s Day weekend in the United States.

The event is open to everyone, regardless of location. Whether you're in a bustling city, a rural farm, or a tropical island, you can contribute valuable data.

By participating in the GBBC, you become part of a global network of bird lovers and citizen scientists working to protect and understand birds better.

How to Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count

Getting involved in the GBBC is simple, and no prior experience in birdwatching is required. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced birder, here’s how you can join:

1. Gather Your Birdwatching Essentials

• Binoculars – Helps spot and identify birds from a distance.
• Bird Field Guide or Bird ID Apps – Tools like Merlin Bird ID or Audubon Bird Guide can assist in recognizing bird species.
• Notebook or Checklist – Jot down your observations or use an official GBBC checklist.

2. Choose Your Spot

• It can be your backyard, a local park, a garden, or even a balcony.
• Try to select a quiet place where birds frequent.

3. Observe and Record Birds

• Spend at least 15 minutes watching birds. You can observe for a longer period or multiple times over the event’s four days.
• Record the highest number of each species you see at once to avoid duplicate counts.

4. Submit Your Data

• Visit www.birdcount.org to enter your data.
• Use the eBird platform or GBBC mobile app for quick submission.

Participating is free, fun, and an excellent way to connect with nature while contributing to meaningful research!

Common Birds to Look for During GBBC

Different regions have unique bird species, but some birds are commonly spotted during the count.

North America

• Northern Cardinal – Bright red bird often seen in backyards.
• Blue Jay – Vibrant blue and white bird with loud calls.
• American Robin – Orange-bellied bird often found in gardens.

Europe

• European Robin – Small bird with a red breast.
• Great Tit – Yellow and black bird found in wooded areas.

Asia

• House Sparrow – Small brown bird seen in urban areas.
• Black Drongo – Black-colored bird with a forked tail.

Learning bird calls and behaviors can also help in identifying species.

Tips for a Successful Bird Count

Want to make your GBBC experience even better? Follow these tips:

• Pick the Right Time – Early mornings are the best times to spot birds.
• Attract Birds to Your Yard – Set up bird feeders, bird baths, or native plants to draw birds.
• Use a Good Pair of Binoculars – A clear view makes identification easier.
• Stay Still and Be Quiet – Birds are more likely to come close if you're not moving too much.

Role of Technology in GBBC

Technology has significantly improved birdwatching and data collection.

• eBird Platform – A global database for logging bird observations.
• Merlin Bird ID App – Helps identify birds using photos or sounds.
• Social Media & Online Communities – Platforms like Facebook and Twitter allow birdwatchers to share findings.

Impact of GBBC on Bird Conservation

The data collected from GBBC helps in:

• Tracking Bird Populations – Identifying species that are increasing or declining.
• Conservation Policies – Governments and NGOs use data to create bird-friendly policies.
• Climate Change Research – Bird migration shifts help scientists study climate change effects.

GBBC vs. Other Bird Counts

How does GBBC compare to other bird counts?

Feature	GBBC	Christmas Bird Count	Project FeederWatch
Timing	February	December	Winter season
Duration	4 days	1 day	Ongoing
Participants	Anyone	Trained birders	Backyard birders

Educational Benefits of GBBC

The GBBC isn’t just for scientists—it’s a great way for families, schools, and communities to learn about birds!

• Hands-on Learning – Kids learn about biodiversity and environmental science.
• Community Engagement – Schools and nature groups organize birdwatching events.
• Encouraging Outdoor Activities – Reduces screen time and promotes outdoor engagement.

Challenges and Limitations of GBBC

Despite its success, the GBBC has some challenges:

• Identification Errors – Beginners may misidentify birds, affecting data accuracy.
• Uneven Participation – Some regions have fewer participants, leading to data gaps.
• Weather Conditions – Poor weather may impact bird visibility and counting.

How to Get Started with Birdwatching Beyond GBBC

Love the GBBC? You can continue birdwatching all year long!

• Join Local Birding Groups – Connect with other bird enthusiasts.
• Participate in Other Bird Counts – Events like Project FeederWatch or Global Big Day keep the momentum going.
• Explore Birding Destinations – Visit national parks or bird sanctuaries to see more species.

Conclusion and Future of GBBC

The Great Backyard Bird Count is more than just a fun activity—it’s a powerful tool for bird conservation. With increasing participation each year, the future of the GBBC looks bright, ensuring that bird populations continue to be monitored and protected.

Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, your contribution matters. So grab your binoculars, step outside, and be part of this global birding movement!