Looking for a free activity in Toronto that connects you with nature? Join the Great Backyard Bird Count at High Park, a community science event perfect for families and beginners.
Summary
The High Park Nature Centre invites you to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count, a global event where individuals count and identify local bird species. Scheduled from February 14 to 17, 2025, each session runs from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Participants will embark on guided walks through High Park to observe and document bird sightings, contributing valuable data to eBird, a worldwide bird database. While the event is free, pre-registration is required to manage group sizes and protect the park’s sensitive trails. The meeting point is the High Park Nature Centre’s Forest School building at 375 Colborne Lodge Drive. Given recent changes to the park’s travel network, it’s recommended to use public transit or bike, as High Park is closed to cars on weekends.
Fun Facts
- Global Participation: The Great Backyard Bird Count, initiated in 1998, now sees participation from over 190 countries, making it a significant global citizen science project.
- Scientific Impact: Data collected helps scientists track bird population trends, migration patterns, and the effects of environmental changes, aiding in effective conservation efforts.
- Community Engagement: In 2021, participants submitted more than 300,000 checklists, providing a real-time snapshot of bird populations worldwide.
Don’t miss this free activity to connect with nature and contribute to global bird conservation efforts. Register now to secure your spot in the Great Backyard Bird Count at High Park!
For more information: Great Backyard Bird Count in High Park – High Park Nature Centre
