The Christmas Bird Count for Kids (CBC4Kids) returns for its third annual event, once again providing youth and families with an opportunity to get outside, count birds, and contribute to science in a fun and COVID-safe environment.

As with last year, families are encouraged to create their own teams to go out and count birds in Burns and Hines. Teams will arrive at the Harney County Library between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18, to register and pick-up their event packets. 

Binoculars and bird ID books will be available for check out and use during the count. All participants will be given a coupon for doughnuts and hot beverages from Annie’s Bakery.

During the count, families will have the opportunity to count birds at a number of bird feeders and popular birding areas around Burns and Hines. Families who visit at least three sites in their area, take a picture with the CBC4Kids goose, and post their pictures to social media will earn a Quail bird patch. 

Several awards will be given out for categories such as: Best Family Photo, Most Quail Counted, Best Team Name, and Most Bird Species Seen. The count will wrap-up between 11:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. 

As participants return their binoculars and count numbers, they will receive a Figaro’s gift cards and some CBC4Kids related goodies. Prizes will be awarded after the count concludes and will be available for pick up at the Harney County Library. 

The CBC4Kids is put on by Portland Audubon’s Eastern Oregon Program (based here in Burns), Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, the Harney County Library, and sponsored by the Bureau of Land Management. For more information about the CBC4Kids or Bird Scouts, please contact Teresa Wicks at twicks@audubonportland.org.