Citizen Scientists Needed For The Great Backyard Bird Count
This February 16–19, 2024 is the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) and everyone can become citizen-scientists for the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology. Participants in the 2024 GBBC, may also be in for some surprises. The vital information gathered and reported will help scientists track changes in the sensitive lives of birds, some of which may be traced to global warming.
Participating is easy, fun to do alone, or with others, and can be done anywhere you find birds.
Step 1 – Decide where you will watch birds.
Step 2 – Watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once over the four days, February 16–19, 2024.
Step 3 – Count all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings:
If you are a beginning bird admirer and new to the count, try using the Merlin Bird ID app.
If you have participated in the count before, try eBird Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website (desktop/laptop).
If you are participating as a group, see instructions for Group Counting.
Below, explore step-by-step instructions for entering data using each available tool.
Here are common birds you're likely to spot in the Bay Area.
Birds in Your Yard
Birds in the Bay, Marshes, Creeks, & Reservoirs
SUGGESTED PLACES TO VIEW THESE BIRDS: Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary, Corte Madera Ecological Reserve, China Camp State Park, Gallinas Creek, Novato Creek Marsh, Rush Creek Marsh, San Rafael Bayfront, Triangle Marsh (Ring Mountain in Corte Madera.), Bolinas Lagoon, Tomales Bay, Kent Lake, Abbott's Lagoon, Olema Creek, Arroyo del Corte Madera, Rodeo Lagoon
Woodland Birds
SUGGESTED PLACES TO VIEW THESE BIRDS: Muir Woods, Mt. Tamalpias, Mount Burdell
Birds in the Fields
SUGGESTED PLACES TO VIEW THESE BIRDS: Mt. Vision, Muir Woods, Mt. Tam, Hawk Hill (Marin Headlands), Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve
Birds at the Ocean
SUGGESTED PLACES TO VIEW THESE BIRDS: Kehoe Beach (Point Reyes National Seashore), Drake's Beach, Limantour, Palomarin Beach, Stinson Beach, Bolinas Beach