BAILEYS HARBOR (WTAQ-WLUK) – Four Door County sites are among the 110 throughout Wisconsin that will take part in an outdoor weekend event.
The 118th annual Christmas Bird Count is a citizen survey designed to give a one-day snapshot of the birds wintering in the area.
Volunteer George Cobb notes “they’re trying to determine the health of the birds, generally, across the world. The other thing is to try and figure out migration habits.”
The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor is among those participating on Saturday.
Cobb explains why he’s taking part.
“I just find it fascinating and relaxing at the same time to be involved with nature.”
Land Manager Matt Peter notes there are roughly 400 documented bird species in Wisconsin.
“It’s the trends over time that really matter. You may start seeing different birds that haven’t shown up before, that you’ll start seeing more and more frequently. Or on the other side, maybe ones that you’ll start seeing in lesser numbers.”
Peter says that includes some birds that you won’t see at a feeder.
“Canada geese is the biggest one. There’s a variety of different ducks that you may see.”
Resulting data will be sent to the National Audubon Society.
