The Kane Christmas Bird Count will be held on Saturday, Dec. 16.

This will be the 33rd year for the Kane count. Many people have been participating for several years, but Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is always looking for new people.

“You don’t have to be an expert. We will pair you with one of our amazing, longtime birders,” said Christy Fleming, Bighorn Canyon interpretation lead.

Participants can pick up envelopes at the front desk at the Lovell Visitor Center anytime during business hours (Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) starting Dec. 12. The Visitor Center will be opened at 7 a.m. on Dec. 16 if participants want to wait until that day. Any envelopes not claimed by 10 a.m. on Dec. 16 may be distributed to another group.

Participants should bring binoculars, bird books, spotting scope, camera, clip board, warm clothing, footwear, gloves, lunch and plenty of water and/or warm drinks.  The bird count is done at 4 p.m. and the results are totaled.

The Kane Christmas Bird Count Circle is centered around the old town of Kane and extends from roughly Moncur Springs on the east side of Bighorn Lake to Sand Draw near Lovell. It includes a good portion of the Yellowtail Habitat. Pheasant season will be open, so don’t forget your hunter orange.

Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. If you don’t have a four-wheel drive vehicle, staff will try to pair you with a team who has one. At check-in, participants will be asked for their vehicle license number, vehicle description and a cellphone number.

Christmas Bird Counts are held throughout North America and South America and the Pacific Islands. They are sponsored by the National Audubon Society. As a citizen scientist during the Christmas Bird Count, participant observations identify species at risk, focus public policy, initiate conservation strategies, influence public commitment and locate birds on the move due to climate change. 

Everyone is welcome — no expertise required. If you are interested in birding but are unsure of your identification skills, you will be teamed up with others who have birding skills. Contact Fleming at 307-548-5406 or by email at Christy_fleming@nps.gov to participate and for more information about the Kane count.

In addition to the Bird Count, the Western National Park Association will be hosting an open house on Dec. 16. There will be discounts on your must have items for last minute gifts and books. Refreshments will also be provided.