Last year, NH Audubon modified our annual Birdathon in light of restrictions in place to combat COVID-19. We focused entirely on local birding, and despite a snowstorm on May 9, Birdathon was deemed a smashing success. Over 100 people participated from all across the state, and collectively tallied 160 species of birds. We also raised over $6,000 to support NH Audubon’s work to protect New Hampshire’s natural environment for wildlife and people.

A year has passed, and while there has been good progress on reducing the risks of COVID-19, it makes a lot of sense to follow the same model as 2020. There will be a few tweaks to the logistics, and more information will be available shortly, but the basic premise will be the same:

We encourage folks to get outside and go birding on SATURDAY, MAY 8 and report what you find to NH Audubon. As before, we encourage staying close to home, whether in your yard, neighborhood, or town, although more broad-ranging expeditions are also welcome. By registering for Birdathon, you sign up for our Birdathon mailing list to receive more information, including an online species list to let us know what you saw.

Can we beat 160 species? Unless it snows again I suspect we can! And of course we’re retaining the fundraising component. Feel free to donate online and encourage your friends and family to do the same.

Find full details, resources and videos on our Birdathon webpage.

Photo: Eastern Phoebe, by Walter Keane.