Why the Annual Backyard Bird Count Is Important In the Greater Seattle Region

It’s here. The Annual Backyard Bird Count. Starting today, February 18th through Monday, February 21st, volunteers are needed around the greater Seattle region to count birds in their own back yards. It only takes 15 minutes each day for the next 4 days and it is an important activity. Why, you might ask?

Trends in bird populations can be an important indicator of the environment. We all heard about recent incidents of mass deaths of birds and other animals. We know that American crows can carry the West Nile virus and tracking their numbers is important. An isolated event such as the dead birds in Arkansas may be within the range of normal ups and downs for an abundant species like the red-winged blackbird. But the count can serve as an early warning system for worrisome declines in bird populations that result from more widespread problems.

What a wonderful family activity that is both fun and educational. Have young children help count and tally each species in your back yard.

For more information, including bird-ID tips, instructions, and past results, visit www.birdcount.org. The count also includes a photo contest and a prize drawing for participants who enter their bird checklists online.

Seattle Area Real Estate