Ridges Hosts Two Volunteer Bird Counts

Volunteer bird enthusiasts all over the country are gearing up for the annual Christmas Bird Count, sponsored by the National Audubon Society. The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor will coordinate two local bird counts, the Ephraim and Northern Door Counts, which are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 18. This unique program is open to anyone who wishes to view and count birds seen on that day, either in the field or at their home bird feeders.There is no need to be an expert birder to participate.

Past Christmas Bird Counts in Door County have revealed both common and unusual birds, everything from frolicking Black-capped Chickadees to Snowy Owls.

Over 100 years ago, the Christmas Bird Count was started as a way to collect data on the numbers and species of birds all across the United States. Birders record the species and numbers of birds they see during a given time period, and the data is analyzed to determine population trends, migration patterns, and the spread of exotic species such as the House Sparrow.

For more information call 920.839.2802 or email [email protected].