Young birders are invited to join the annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC) for Greater Portland on Saturday, December 16. The count will take place in the southern section of Scarborough Marsh and Pine Point. To learn about the history and significance of the CBC nationally and in Maine, click on the links provided. In the past, we've had such treats as Snowy Owl, Red-necked Grebe, Barrow's Goldeneye, and Bohemian Waxwing, as well as surprise species like Carolina Wren and American Pipit. Join us on this special day as we will endeavor to count each and every individual bird we see or hear in our count circle!
We will hold the count as scheduled unless there is a major weather event. In the event of a storm, the count will take place on Sunday, December 17. If the weather for count day looks questionable, I will send out an email notification the day before with instructions.
American Tree Sparrow. Photo by Fyn Kynd.
LOGISTICS: Dress in WARM layers and wear comfortable WARM walking shoes. Be sure to bring a hat, gloves, and toe/hand warmers if necessary. We will be out in the cold for a long period of time, so it is easy to catch a chill if underdressed. Bring the following: filled water bottle or two, snacks, a bagged lunch, warm hat, warm coat, cozy under-layers, gloves, socks, waterproof hiking boots, etc., binoculars, camera (optional), scope (if you have/want one), notebook & field guide (optional), and a backpack in which you'll keep all your stuff. If you do not have binoculars, MYBC will provide you with a pair.
MEET UP and PICK UP: We will be meeting at 6:45 am at the Scarborough Marsh Nature Center parking area (92 Pine Point Road, Scarborough). From U.S. Route One in Scarborough, turn east onto Pine Point Road (also marked as Route 9 West). The nature center is located .8 miles on the left.
We will be done at around 1:00 or 2:00 pm, though you have the option of leaving the count sooner. If you wish to depart earlier, you will need to coordinate with your parent(s).
A grand compilation of the bird count data will take place at 5:00 pm on the count day at the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center in Falmouth. This is a very fun event complete with snacks, hot chocolate, and the shared good spirits of a day devoted to birding. If you are interested in participating in the compilation, please express your interest in your RSVP.
CARPOOLING: If you wish to carpool out of Biddeford with Lena Moser, send her an email at info@maineyoungbirders.org.
Cedar Waxwing. Photo by Fyn Kynd.
Pileated Woodpecker. Photo by Fyn Kynd.
White-breasted Nuthatch. Photo by Fyn Kynd.