As an ornithologist, Chapman had no quarrel with collecting specimens, but he advocated restraint and discrimination. Chapman originated the magazine, Bird-Lore in 1899 and published his results. The National Association of Audubon Societies bought Bird-Lore from Chapman in 1934. With the sale, Chapman transferred all legal rights to the Christmas Bird Count. The organization changed its name to National Audubon Society in 1942 and Bird-Lore became Audubon magazine.
Birds are indicators of the overall health of our environment.
Christmas Bird Count data over time in any given area provide valuable insights into the long-term health of bird populations and the environment. The count data also reveal interesting and scientifically useful information on the early-winter distribution patterns of various bird species. The Christmas Bird Count itself has evolved into the largest and longest-running wildlife survey ever undertaken. Count data are available through the interactive Bird Source website, a cooperative project of the National Audubon Society and the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology . The first Fort Collins count was conducted in 1947 with just two counters.