On Saturday, December 17, Lake George residents  will be among tens of thousands of volunteers throughout North America braving winter weather to collect data about birds.

On that date, the Lake George Land Conservancy will sponsor a local rendition of the Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count.

According to Sarah Hoffman, the Lake George Land Conservancy’s Communications and Outreach Manager,  the Conservancy has acted as the designated compiler of all data collected within a 15-mile radius of Bolton Landing since 1991.

“On average, 1,299 individual birds are reported each year, with an average of 34 different species. Volunteers choose to survey routes by foot, car, or boat, and submit bird counts as well as weather conditions and hours to the Conservancy, which then provides all of the compiled information to the Audubon Society,” said Hoffman.

Northern Cardinal

Scientists rely on the data to better understand how birds are faring in North America, said Hoffman.

“Everyone who takes part in the Christmas Bird Count plays a critical role in helping us focus attention and conservation where it is most needed.” said Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count Director, Geoff LeBaron. “In addition to Audubon’s reports on the impacts of Climate Change on birds and our analysis of Common Birds in Decline, it is the foundation for Audubon’s WatchList, which most identified species in dire need of conservation help.”

Anyone interested in participating in this year’s Christmas Bird Count should contact the Lake George Land Conservancy at 644-9673.