Birding Together: A Tradition of Care

By Shannan Brimmer, Golden Eagle Audubon Board Member

For the past four years, the Christmas Bird Count has been a cherished tradition between my dad and me. As a field trip leader with Golden Eagle Audubon, I’ve had the privilege of learning from my dad, who has been birding for the past forty years. Throughout this time, he has regularly emailed me helpful birding tips, emphasizing the importance of birding ethics, especially during my first bird count.

Essential Birding Ethics

Birding should never come at the expense of wildlife. Respect is paramount: always avoid disturbing birds by maintaining a safe distance and minimizing noise. When considering playback calls, remember that less is more; excessive use can stress birds or disrupt their natural behaviors. It’s also vital to stay on designated trails to protect fragile habitats and never trespass—honoring private property boundaries is essential.

Honesty and Inclusiveness

Sharing sightings with honesty is crucial, as accurate data supports conservation efforts. If you are birding in a group, foster an environment of inclusiveness and patience, especially with beginners. It’s important to remember that the count is not a competition, but rather a collective celebration of nature.

Preserving the Count and Wildlife

Practicing ethical birding preserves both the integrity of the Christmas Bird Count and the wellbeing of the birds we all love. Let’s make this season one of care, curiosity, and conservation.

We are excited to have you join us this year on the Christmas Bird Count and/or some of our ongoing field trips. You could even bring your dad! Happy counting!