The Christmas Bird Count comes to Bryce Canyon National Park on December 21/Kurt Repanshek file

They'll be counting birds at Bryce Canyon National Park on December 21, and are always looking for some help in tallying the various species.

The National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count, now in its 120th 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.

A rare bird that has been spotted from time to time at Bryce Canyon is the California condor.

The event is free, and will begin at 8 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-shirt will be provided back at the visitor center, thanks to the Bryce Canyon Natural History Association.

Currently, the park is looking for volunteers to help with the 2019 count. If you are interested in participating, contact Ranger Peter Densmore by phone at 435-834-4744 or by e-mail at [email protected].  Those who volunteer will receive free park admission. Additionally, those in the Bryce Canyon area who would like to contribute data by counting from their home feeders are invited to contact the park as well.