OUTDOORS: 126th Audubon Christmas Bird Count begins Dec. 14

Key Takeaways:

• The 126th Audubon Christmas Bird Count starts December 14.
• It originated in response to the Christmas “Side Hunt,” an older holiday tradition.
• Today’s bird count focuses on observation and documentation rather than hunting.
• The story was published by the Finger Lakes Times on December 7, 2025.
• It highlights a major shift in attitudes toward wildlife conservation.

A Historic Tradition

Around the turn of the twentieth century, holiday festivities included the “Side Hunt,” where hunters headed out on Christmas Day aiming to return with the greatest number of birds and other wildlife. This practice reflected a mindset of consumption rather than conservation.

The Bird Count Emerges

As attitudes toward wildlife began to change, bird enthusiasts and conservationists looked for new ways to appreciate nature. The result was the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, organized as a voluntary effort to document rather than hunt birds. Now in its 126th installment, it has become a respected event for nature lovers seeking to protect bird populations.

Looking Ahead to December 14

This year’s count begins on December 14, continuing an effort that has grown far beyond its humble origins. Enthusiasts prepare to record sightings, documenting species and providing valuable data for ornithologists and wildlife organizations. The shift from a widespread “Side Hunt” to a cooperative census underscores the evolving perspective on holiday traditions.

Reflections on Conservation

The days of seeing who could bag the most birds have given way to counting how many birds can be carefully observed in their natural habitats. The 126th Audubon Christmas Bird Count stands as a symbol of changing times—an enduring reminder that conservation and awareness can shape the future of our shared environment.