Audubon's annual Christmas Bird Count is underway across the nation. Birders and environmentalists from around the country are joining other enthusiasts to help scientists better understand the changing nature of our natural world and the always interesting behaviors of birds. The National Audubon Society writes:

The data collected by observers over the past century allow researchers, conservation biologists, and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. When combined with other surveys such as the Breeding Bird Survey, it provides a picture of how the continent's bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years.

In Paynes Prairie, near Gainesville, local birders participating in the count were profiled by the Gainesville Sun. Our staff in that area have reported that they have already set a record for number of species observed and found a flock of 120 plus Rusty Blackbirds - right in downtown Gainesville!

It's not too late - you can still participate.