By BEN JOHNSTON | Wilton
The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) once again is coming to the Kickapoo Valley. This is the 118th Christmas Bird count.
For the CBC, volunteers tally (i.e., count) individual birds, by species, on the designated count day. Observations must be within the official count circle, a 15-mile-diameter survey area. In our area, there are two circles: one is centered at the intersection of County Highway T and Highway 131 (“Kickapoo Valley Circle”), and one is centered in La Farge (“La Farge Circle”). The Kickapoo Valley Count Day is Saturday, Dec. 23; the La Farge Circle Count Day is Saturday, Dec. 30.
Here are ways you can participate:
• Stock your bird feeders.
• Count birds at your feeder if your feeder is within the circle. Otherwise, visit someone who feeds birds and lives in the circle.
• Participate in field surveys, solo or with others. We drive the area counting birds. Many of our observations are at home feeders (see No. 1). Foot and river surveys also are an option.
• Listen for owls during the dark hours from your home, if you live in the circle; otherwise, visit someone who does. Road surveys can also be conducted.
• Remain calm if you see a car of birders with binoculars pointed at your house. They are only counting the birds around your house.
In the end, if you or anyone you know is interested in counting this year, you can contact me at ben.johnston@wisconsin.gov (625-2960) to sign up, or visit the Audubon Christmas Bird Count webpage for more information.