From Shotguns to Spotting Scopes: Dec 14, 2025 –Jan 5, 2026
Did you know the most important bird census in the world began as an alternative to a bird-killing competition?
Photo: Buffle Heads by Tony Woo
That’s right, before the 20th century, holiday traditions sometimes included the “Christmas Side Hunt,” where people would head into the fields and forests, rifles in hand, to shoot as many birds and animals as possible. Whoever brought back the most won. This was long before widespread awareness of species decline or conservation.
In 1900, an American ornithologist named Frank M. Chapman, an early leader of the Audubon Society, had a revolutionary idea: Instead of killing birds, what if we simply counted them?
That December, Chapman organized 27 bird counts across North America with a total of 26 observers. Their peaceful, binocular-filled day in the field launched what we now know as the Christmas Bird Count (CBC) — the longest-running community science project in the world.
The Christmas Bird Count Today in 2025
This year, between December 14 and January 5, thousands of volunteers will once again spread out across the Western Hemisphere to observe, identify, and count birds in designated areas called “count circles.” It is usually an experienced volunteer birder that will take on the responsibility to be in charge of a specific count circle. A count circle is broken down into small territories and divided up amongst more volunteers. These volunteers are assigned to their specific area and on a designated annual date will spend hours counting every bird that they see. The data is then given back to the compiler where the data will be submitted to the National Audubon Society’s central data base. The results are then made available online. Participating in the CBC helps scientists track long-term trends in bird populations, migratory patterns, and the effects of climate and habitat change. It’s a great tool for conservation.
More Volunteers are Always Needed
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, here’s why the CBC is special:
-Real impact! These observations contribute to decades of vital bird population data.
-Learn as you go. Newbies are always welcome. You’ll likely be paired with an experienced group.
-Nature & connection. Spend a day outdoors, discovering species you might never notice otherwise.
-Be part of history. Join a tradition more than 120 years old rooted in protection, not exploitation.
How to Participate Locally? You don’t need to be an expert or have fancy gear, but you do have to have a pair of binoculars, be willing to get up early, and make sure you wear layers of warm clothing. Just contact your local Audubon chapters or Bird Alliance. The Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance is responsible for Santa Clara County. Learn more here: https://scvbirdalliance.org/christmas-bird-count
Let’s Count Birds, Not Bags. It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come from shooting birds for sport to counting them for science. We hope you’ll get to join the thousands who step outside this holiday season to appreciate and protect the birds.