4 February 2025
Are you ready to connect with nature and make a difference in global bird conservation? Brownsburg invites you to participate in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC)—a worldwide event that brings together bird enthusiasts, conservationists, and everyday nature lovers. This exciting event, led by our knowledgeable naturalist, offers an opportunity to observe, identify, and document the diverse bird species that call Brownsburg home. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just getting started, this is a wonderful chance to learn more about our feathered friends and contribute to meaningful scientific research.
Event Details
- Date: February 15
- Time: 9 a.m.
- Location: Arbuckle Acres Park, Brownsburg
- Admission: Free – No registration required
- Terrain: Natural and gravel with some slopes
- Equipment: Binoculars are encouraged; free loaners provided by the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County
What is the Great Backyard Bird Count?
The Great Backyard Bird Count is a global citizen science initiative aimed at monitoring bird populations. Launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, the GBBC was the first online community science project dedicated to collecting and displaying real-time bird observation data. Every year, in mid-February, birdwatchers worldwide participate by spotting and recording local bird species and submitting their findings through the eBird app—a powerful platform for data collection and analysis.
The data collected helps scientists identify trends in bird populations, understand changes in migration patterns, and address conservation challenges. Since 2013, the GBBC has expanded internationally, welcoming participants from every continent. By 2015, nearly half of the world’s known bird species had been recorded through the event!
Why Participate?
Your participation in the GBBC directly supports bird conservation efforts. The information gathered during this event is used to:
- Track bird population changes over time
- Identify species that may be declining
- Study the effects of climate change on bird migration and habitat
- Inform conservation policies and habitat protection strategies
Each bird counted adds valuable data to ongoing research, making the GBBC a crucial tool for ornithologists and conservationists worldwide.
What to Expect at the Brownsburg Event
On the morning of February 15, you’ll join our expert naturalist at Arbuckle Acres Park for a guided birdwatching experience. Throughout the event, participants will:
- Learn about local bird species: Discover the diverse avian life that thrives in Brownsburg and beyond.
- Count and document birds: Observe different species, record their numbers, and contribute data to the global effort.
- Enjoy community engagement: Meet fellow bird enthusiasts, share experiences, and foster a deeper connection with nature.
- Explore Brownsburg’s natural beauty: Take in the fresh air and picturesque landscapes while participating in an enriching outdoor activity.
After the count, all recorded bird data will be submitted to eBird, ensuring that your observations become part of a worldwide database used by scientists and conservation organizations.
Who Can Join?
Everyone is welcome! Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a beginner, or someone simply looking for a fun and educational outdoor activity, this event is for you. Families, students, and seniors are all encouraged to participate. The more people involved, the more data we can collect to help protect our avian friends!
What to Bring?
- Comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear
- A notebook or smartphone for recording observations
- Binoculars (if available—loaner binoculars will also be provided for free!)
- A love for nature and curiosity about birds
How Your Participation Makes a Difference
Bird populations are constantly shifting due to environmental changes, habitat loss, and climate fluctuations. The GBBC provides scientists with vital information to monitor these trends and take action to protect vulnerable species. By spending just a few hours birdwatching in Brownsburg, you contribute to a global effort that has far-reaching impacts on bird conservation.
Join Us and Be Part of a Global Movement
The Great Backyard Bird Count is more than just an event—it’s a movement that brings people together to celebrate and protect birds. Brownsburg is proud to be part of this international initiative, and we invite you to join us on February 15 at 9 a.m. at Arbuckle Acres Park.
With no registration required and free binoculars available, all you need to do is show up, enjoy the beauty of nature, and help make a difference. Bring your friends, family, and an open heart for this incredible community science project.
Every bird counts. Every person counts. We look forward to seeing you there!
(See Brownsburg Parks for more info.)