Since the Christmas Bird Count began over a century ago, it has relied on the dedication and commitment of volunteer citizen scientists. We volunteers have replaced the hunters of old. We count birds and invite you to join us.

Two Christmas Bird Counts (CBC) are held in York County each December. The York County CBC (from Fort Foster to Moody Beach) is held on the first Monday of the count period and the Biddeford-Kennebunkport CBC (from Parsons Beach to the Cascades) is held at the end of the month.

Every CBC covers a circular area with a 15-mile diameter. Teams of birders search sections of the count circle, tallying the total number of species and individuals they find.

Beginning birders are welcome. Want to help? You can join a group that includes at least one experience

This year, we’ll be following CDC guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety, and may not be able to accommodate as many participants.

If your home is within a CBC circle, you can also join in by counting the birds that visit your feeders.

New since 2012: The CBC no longer requires a participation fee!

Explore the CBC database.