An annual hemispheric early-winter bird census. The team that shot the most birds and other small animals was the winner. As a protest, Chapman organized 27 friends in 25 locations on Christmas Day, 1900. Instead of shooting birds, they counted them.
Birds are indicators of the overall health of our environment.
Christmas Bird Count data over time in any given area can provide valuable insights into the long-term health of bird populations and the environment. Bird counters try to cover as much of the circle area as possible within a 24-hour calendar day, counting each individual bird and species they see or hear in their designated sector of the circle. Representatives from each counting group meet at the end of the day to compile the master list and eliminate double-counting of birds. Bird feeders within the circle are also censused. The Christmas Bird Count itself has evolved into the largest and longest-running wildlife survey ever undertaken.