December 14th marks the start of a very special window in the conservation calendar. While most of us are focused on gift wrapping and holiday parties, thousands of people across the continent are grabbing their binoculars and heading out into the cold for the Christmas Bird Count.
You might have heard of it, but you might not know its incredible origin story—one that represents a major victory for animal welfare.
From Slaughter to Science
Back in the late 19th century, there was a holiday tradition known as the “Christmas Side Hunt.” People would choose sides and head out into the fields and forests with their guns. The goal was simple and brutal: whoever brought back the biggest pile of dead birds and animals won. It didn’t matter if the animals were edible or rare; it was just a game of numbers.
In 1900, an ornithologist named Frank Chapman proposed a new idea. He suggested that instead of shooting birds, people should count them.
On that first Christmas Day in 1900, 27 birders set out to count. They replaced the “bag” of game with a census of life. It was a small shift that sparked a massive movement. Today, the Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running citizen science project in the world.
Why It Matters Today
The count runs every year from December 14th to January 5th. The data collected by volunteers (that could be you!) provides a snapshot of the health of bird populations.
This data is used by scientists to track long-term trends. It helps us understand how climate change is shifting migration patterns, which species are in decline, and where we need to focus our conservation efforts. It is a powerful example of how we can shift our relationship with nature from one of exploitation to one of observation and protection.
How You Can Join the Count
You don’t need to be an expert birder to participate!
- Find a Local Circle: The count is organized into “circles.” You can visit the Birds Canada website to find a count circle near you (there are many in BC!).
- Feeder Watch: If you aren’t up for hiking in the cold, many circles allow “feeder watchers” to count birds from the comfort of their own homes and submit the data.
- Just Get Out There: Even if you don’t join an official count, use this week to take a walk and simply appreciate the birds that stick it out through our Canadian winter.
This December, let’s celebrate a tradition that honours life. Whether you’re counting chickadees at your feeder or spotting eagles on the coast, you’re part of a 125-year-old legacy of choosing compassion over destruction.
Happy counting!