The Great Backyard Bird Count 2025: Your guide for connecting with Conservation.

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an annual global event inviting people of all ages and experience levels to observe, count, and report bird species in their communities. Taking place from February 14–17, 2025, this citizen science initiative provides critical data that helps track bird populations and migration trends worldwide.

Founded by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, the GBBC is an excellent way for nature enthusiasts to contribute to scientific research while fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

To register for this year’s count and learn more, visit the official GBBC website.

How Does the Great Backyard Bird Count Work?

Participating in the GBBC is simple, making it accessible to birders of all skill levels. Here’s how to get involved:

1. Choose Your Observation Spot
   Select a location such as your backyard, local park, or balcony where you can comfortably watch birds.

2. Spend Time Watching Birds
   Dedicate at least 15 minutes on one or more days during the event to observing birds.

3. Identify the Birds You See
   Use your birdwatching skills or a bird identification app like Merlin Bird ID to accurately recognize the species you encounter.

4. Submit Your Observations
   Record your counts and submit your data using platforms like eBird.org or the eBird app.

Your contributions help scientists better understand bird population trends and the challenges they face, including habitat loss and climate change.

Why Participate in the GBBC?

Birds play an essential role in ecosystems, serving as pollinators, pest controllers, and seed dispersers. However, many species are under threat due to environmental challenges. The GBBC allows everyday citizens to contribute valuable data to help protect these vital creatures.

Your participation helps to:

• Track bird migration patterns across different regions.
• Monitor the health of ecosystems through bird population trends.
• Identify species at risk, supporting conservation efforts.

The data gathered during the GBBC is used by researchers, conservationists, and policymakers to make informed decisions about protecting wildlife and biodiversity.

Helpful Tools for Bird Counting

Bird counting has never been easier, thanks to innovative apps and tools. Here are a few recommendations to enhance your GBBC experience:

• eBird by Cornell Lab: This app allows you to log and submit bird sightings directly to the GBBC database.
• Merlin Bird ID: Perfect for beginners, this app identifies birds based on descriptions, photos, or sounds.
• BirdNET: A useful tool for identifying birds by their songs and calls, ideal for audio-based birding enthusiasts.

All these apps are free and user-friendly, making bird identification and data submission simple for everyone.

How to Prepare for the Great Backyard Bird Count 2025

To make the most of your birdwatching experience during the GBBC, follow these preparation tips:

1. Familiarize Yourself with Local Birds
   Study common bird species in your area using field guides or apps like Merlin Bird ID. (personal fav) 

2. Attract Birds to Your Location
   Set up bird feeders with seeds or suet to encourage more birds to visit your observation spot.

3. Use the Right Tools
   Binoculars, a notebook, and a smartphone equipped with birding apps can help your observations,  Download the ebird app for extra help.  

4. Get Involved with Others
   Join local birdwatching groups or events to expand eductional experience. 

FAQs About the Great Backyard Bird Count 2025

1. When is the GBBC 2025?
The GBBC will take place from February 14 to February 17, 2025.

2. Is the GBBC open to beginners?
Yes, anyone can participate, regardless of birdwatching experience.

3. Is there a fee to join the GBBC?
No, the event is entirely free.

4. How do I register?
Visit the GBBC website to register and access helpful resources.

5. What tools do I need to participate?
All you need is a way to observe birds, such as binoculars or your own eyesight. Birding apps like eBird or Merlin Bird ID are helpful but not required.

6. How is my data used?
The information you collect is added to a global database that helps scientists study bird populations and trends, supporting conservation efforts.

Make a Difference with the Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count 2025 is an exciting opportunity to contribute to global conservation and enjoy nature. Participation makes an impact no matter where you are in your birdwatching journey.

Ready to join? Visit the GBBC website to register and learn more about this year’s event. Download a bird counting app, grab your binoculars, and step outside to help protect bird populations worldwide.

This February, take a moment to connect with nature and contribute to a brighter future for birds. Together, our collective efforts during the GBBC 2025 can make a world of difference