For over 125 years\, the Audubon Society has held Christmas Bird Counts across the United States. Data gathered from these counts is used to understand bird populations. During the Christmas Bird Count\, groups are assigned an area within a 15-mile radius and record as many different bird species as possible. The species and numbers are then compiled\, sent to the Audubon Society\, and documented. The count must take place around Christmas\, and groups must pick a specific 24-hour period to record birds. The date we have selected is December 17. We have multiple bird experts and have divided the quadrant into sections. There are several ways to participate in a birding day. 1. If you are an expert\, you can help lead a group. 2. Even if you don&rsquo\;t know birds\, you can join an expert and learn about birds along the way. 3. If you have bird feeders at your home\, you can watch and record the birds that come to your feeders. You do not have to dedicate 24 hours. You can give as much time as you want. If you are interested in joining us for the bird count on December 17\, please get in touch with Emma Bruck at 641-752-5490 or ebruck@marshallcountyia.gov by December 11 at 4:00 p.m. The map below shows the regions we will cover. This includes the towns of Marshalltown\, Albion\, Green Mountain\, and Laurel.