
Ravens surely will be in view for Bryce Canyon's Christmas Bird Count on December 7/Kurt Repanshek file photo
On December 7, nature lovers and birders of all levels of experience will gather at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah to participate in the world’s longest-running citizen bird census. The National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count, now in its 118th year, is an annual event that brings together volunteers across the United States, South America, Canada, and distant Pacific islands to assist scientists in the monumental task of assessing the health of bird populations.
The free event begins at 8:30 a.m. with hot drinks and pastries in the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. Beginners will be paired with experienced birders, and groups will be provided with everything needed to conduct the count within the 15-mile radius assigned to the park. Following the morning bird count, a hot lunch and souvenir T-shirts will be provided at the visitor center, thanks to the Bryce Canyon Natural History Association.
Nearly 200 different species of birds have been documented to frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. Some are just passing through. Others stay for an entire season. Fewer still make the park their year-round home.
The park is looking for volunteers to help with the 2017 count. If you are interested in participating, contact Ranger Peter Densmore at 435-834-4744 or [email protected]. Those who volunteer will receive free park admission. Additionally, those in the local area who would like to contribute data by counting from their home feeders are invited to contact the park.
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