About the Christmas Bird Count

The Christmas Bird Count  (CBC) was established in 1900 by an officer of the Audubon Society to monitor the status and distribution of bird populations. Since that time, yearly counts have grown from 25 within the US and Canada to over 2,000 counts throughout the western hemisphere (National Audubon Society, 2008).

The CBC season is December 14 through January 5 each year. Local counts take place on one day in that period as established by the local count group. Everyone is welcome to join the count. Each group includes at least one experienced birdwatcher, so beginners are encouraged to participate!

There are two ways to participate. You may join a group of birdwatchers in the field, or, if you live within the boundaries of a CBC circle (see Maps for the local circle), you can participate by staying at home and reporting the birds that visit your feeder. You must sign up in advance to receive instructions and be assigned to a group and section of the circle. The National Audubon Society requires a fee of $5.00 from each field participant over the age of 18. There is no fee for feeder watchers.

The 2010/11 Sweden, Maine count will be conducted on Tuesday, December 28, 2010. In the event of inclement weather, the count will be held on Wednesday, December 29.

Visit the Links to the left for additional information and details.

If you are interested in joining the Sweden, Maine Christmas Bird Count, please contact Jean or Sue .

UPDATED FOR 2009/10:  See Historical Data Link at left for Christmas Bird Count results from seasons 1972/73 through 2009/10.