February 13-16, 2026 - Bird Count
by: Susan W. Smith
Notice: TI Life is being published two days early – with the intention of allowing you to participate in the Annual Worldwide Bird Count, which runs from 13 – 16 February 2026.
History
Back in 1998, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the National Audubon Society, and the Great Backyard Bird Count (CBBC) were the first to join a public program to collect data and, amazingly, to display the results in almost Real Time. In 2009, Birds Canada joined the project, and in 2013, people around the world joined what is now known as "the world’s largest biodiversity-related participatory science (community science or citizen science) project."
Wolfe Island visitors, January 2026. [Photo by Lynda Crothers ©2026]
Published Project Goal
Each February, for four days, the world comes together for the love of birds. Over these four days we invite people to spend time in their favorite places watching and counting as many birds as they can find and reporting them to us. These observations help scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations.
A Video that explains it all!
Lynda Crothers, who has lived on the south side of Wolfe Island for over 15 years, delights us when she captures ships plying the St. Lawrence Seaway as well as her lovely blooming plants. This time of year she shares her visitors who have feathers! She posts them on 1000 Islands River Rats Now and Then, Facebook page! These are just a couple of examples of birds that have flown in this January 2026. Thanks Lynda, for all that you do for the community. Much appreciated!
So today, wherever you are, join by looking out the window, walking your dog, or just getting out of the house, taking a walk on the beach, stopping at Frink Park, or at the Gananoque Marina capture the birds!
Happy birding and enjoy!
By Susan W. Smith, Editor, info@thousandislandslife.com
