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DVOC Main Page > 2007 Christmas Counts
Updated Monday, December 17, 2007

2007-08 CHRISTMAS COUNTS

Click Here for a pdf file of counts in the Delaware Valley Region (compiled by Naomi Murphy) (updated 12/17/07)
Send any additions or corrections to

Click Here for a list of New Jersey counts (compiled by Mike Anderson and posted by Laurie Larsen)

Click Here for the National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count Website

It may not feel like science, tromping through a frozen field on a snowy morning, but the data collected during the annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is an important scientific and conservation resource to professionals and lay people, around the world.

Organized over 100 years ago by Frank Chapman, the Christmas Bird Count has evolved from an alternative to shooting raptors, to an international event encompassing over 50,000 volunteers counting birds for three or four weeks. The CBC, managed by National Audubon Society (NAS), is the longest-running ornithological database. It provides ongoing, important statistics about bird populations, trends, distributions, habitat threats and rare findings. In the 1970’s, the CBC provided crucial evidence in proving that DDT caused the decline of raptors and other birds, leading to a federal ban on the pesticide. Among other things, CBC data is currently being used to study and monitor the West Nile Virus.

The Christmas Bird Count takes place each year from mid-December through early January, covering over 2,000 CBC sections. The National Audubon Society divides North, Central and South America into small sections known as circles, managed by Compilers. Compilers designate the day on which his/her circle completes the CBC. It is no small task for Compilers to notify and organize participants, gather and compile the data, and submit lots of information to NAS on-line. Some Compilers even orchestrate post-count parties, to swap stories and toast a long-standing holiday tradition!

Many dedicated DVOC members are active in Christmas Bird Counts - as Compilers, section leaders and volunteer participants. COMPILERS NEED YOUR HELP! If you’ve never participated in a CBC, you are missing a great opportunity to contribute to conservation, and spend a rewarding day of birding, while making new friends. Note the list of CBC’s taking place in our local area. Contact any of the Compilers or section leaders ASAP, to join one or more local counts.

Written by Debbie Beer - Conservation Committee Chairperson