Home For the love of birds: How you can get in on the annual count Feb. 14-17
Virginia News

For the love of birds: How you can get in on the annual count Feb. 14-17

Crystal Graham
annual bird count female cardinal bird tree winter snow ice
(© MargJohnsonVA – stock.adobe.com)

The Great Backyard Bird Count is happening throughout the world, and you are invited to participate Feb. 14-17.

Participants are asked to log the birds you count in a 15-minute period on at least one of the four days of the event.

The data helps scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations.

Virginia State Parks will also hold events to celebrate the annual bird count.

“Bear Creek Lake has a wide variety of birds you can see this time of year and our program is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about these species,” said Joey Dayton, Bear Creek Lake state park manager. “On February 15, we will offer a guided hike program at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. that will visit different habitats.”

State parks that are having a bird count event include:

  • Bear Creek Lake, Cumberland
  • Caledon, King George
  • Fairy Stone, Stuart
  • New River Trail, Max Meadows
  • Twin Lakes, Green Bay

Those interested in participating in this year’s bird count can find an event or related program at one of several participating parks.

Participants may download the Merlin Bird ID app to help identify the birds in your area or you can use the eBird Mobile app to enter your bird sightings.

Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.