Annual Counts & Surveys
AZFO coordinates and supports several one-day counts and surveys, which establish long-term information on bird distribution and trends across Arizona.
May 10, 2025
Every May birders worldwide participate in eBird's Global Big Day spring migration count. In Arizona, AZFO coordinates this effort on a countywide basis and tallies the statewide results. Click here for more information about the survey in Arizona, the annual tallies, and the list of county coordinators.
CHECK OUT 2024's RESULTS ON eBIRD OR DOWNLOAD THE DATA)
(Northern Parula. Photo: Scott Olmstead)
Greater Phoenix Area Waterbird Survey
January 18, 2025
Since 2006, on the third Saturday in January, scores of birders survey the Phoenix area for waterbirds. AZFO supports and helps promote this annual count, which is part of the implementation of the Arizona Coordinated Monitoring Program sponsored by the Arizona Bird Conservation Initiative.
Survey results assist in monitoring annual winter populations and identifying areas with high concentrations of birds and species. This includes high numbers of species that may lead to potential urban management conflict. Potential future wildlife viewing areas are also highlighted through these surveys. To participate contact the Ashley Lauria.
(Lesser Scaups. Photo: Mike Foley)
January 18, 2025
Held annually on the third Saturday in January since 2006, this count accumulates data to help assess the number of raptors wintering at this farmland area between Phoenix and Tucson. The information has established a baseline of winter raptor population trends, which can influence future plans that could impact the habitat and raptors at this location.
LEARN MORE, ACCESS THE DATA, AND SIGN UP!
(Ferruginous Hawk. Photo: Jim Hogland)
December 14, 2024 - January 5, 2025
The National Audubon Society has sponsored Christmas Bird Counts throughout the western hemisphere for many years, developing a long-term database on wintering bird populations. Volunteers record every bird species and number of birds within a 15-mile diameter circle. And it's a fun time, besides! All birders are welcome to join in.
We assist in this effort by coordinating the schedule of the more than 35 circles in Arizona and making this schedule and the list of compilers publicly available. Want to know more about participating and about how to improve count results? Check out this video from AZFO and Tucson Audubon Society for more details.
STAY TUNED: THE 2024-2025 SCHEDULE WILL BE POSTED HERE!
(Vesper Sparrow. Photo: Steve Prager)