Austin, February 5, 2026
Austin, Texas, gears up for the 29th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count from February 13 to 16. This global citizen science event invites locals to observe and report bird species from their backyards and parks, contributing vital data to conservation efforts. Community participation fosters deeper connections with nature while tracking bird population trends. Join this enriching experience to connect with fellow bird enthusiasts and support scientific research.
Get Ready for the Great Backyard Bird Count in Austin, TX
Join the global movement from February 13 to 16, 2026, and support citizen science in your community!
Austin, Texas, is bustling with excitement as it prepares for the 29th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), taking place from February 13 to 16, 2026. This event exemplifies community participation and highlights the role of individual initiative in contributing to vital scientific research. With reduced bureaucratic obstacles, local citizens can easily engage in this enriching experience while benefiting from the generosity of nature all around them.
Over nearly three decades, the GBBC has evolved into a significant international event, inviting individuals to take part in observing and reporting local bird populations. As birdwatchers gather data from their own backyards or local parks, they help scientists track global trends in bird populations and conservation, showcasing how local actions can have far-reaching impacts.
Event Details
The GBBC will take place across various locations, allowing participants to choose settings that inspire them, whether their own backyards or the scenic confines of local parks like the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Participants are encouraged to spend at least 15 minutes observing and recording the bird species they see during the event. A great way to submit these observations is through the user-friendly eBird app or website.
About the Great Backyard Bird Count
The GBBC began in 1998 as a collaborative effort between the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada. In previous counts, participants have reported thousands of bird species globally, generating invaluable data for ongoing conservation efforts. In 2025 alone, over 800,000 individuals contributed to a comprehensive snapshot of 8,078 bird species, underscoring the power of citizen science in informing environmental stewardship.
Benefits of Participation
Participating in the GBBC offers multiple benefits beyond simply spotting birds:
- Contribute to Science: Your observations help researchers track changes in bird populations and migration patterns.
- Connect with Nature: Engaging in birdwatching can foster a deeper appreciation for local wildlife, enhancing one’s connection with the environment.
- Community Engagement: Joining the GBBC allows you to connect with a global community of bird enthusiasts who share similar interests.
Weather Forecast for Austin During the GBBC
Weather conditions in Austin during the GBBC are predicted to be favorable for outdoor activities, encouraging locals to partake in this enriching experience:
- Thursday, February 12: Low 54°F, High 77°F, Warm with partial sunshine
- Friday, February 13: Low 47°F, High 74°F, A passing morning shower; otherwise, mostly sunny
- Saturday, February 14: Low 47°F, High 73°F, Plenty of sun
- Sunday, February 15: Low 51°F, High 74°F, Plenty of sun
Conclusion
The Great Backyard Bird Count represents a wonderful opportunity for Austinites to engage in scientific discovery, deepen their connection with nature, and contribute to critical global conservation efforts. Whether you embark on your birdwatching journey individually or with friends and family, your participation is crucial. As community members, let’s take the initiative to join together in this exciting event!
FAQ
The Great Backyard Bird Count is a global citizen science event where participants observe and report bird species in their local areas, contributing valuable data to scientists monitoring bird populations.
The 29th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count is scheduled from February 13 to 16, 2026.
Residents are encouraged to participate individually or in small groups. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, known for its diverse bird species, offers an excellent setting for birdwatching.
Use the eBird app or website to submit your observations.
Participating helps track changes in bird populations and migration patterns, fosters a deeper appreciation for local wildlife, and connects you with a global community of bird enthusiasts.
The weather during the GBBC in Austin is expected to be favorable for outdoor activities, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit and mostly sunny skies.
Key Features of the Great Backyard Bird Count
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | February 13–16, 2026 |
| Participation Requirements | Observe and report bird species for at least 15 minutes in your local area |
| Submission Method | Use the eBird app or website to submit observations |
| Local Participation | Residents can participate individually or in small groups; the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a recommended location |
| Global Impact | Data collected contributes to monitoring bird populations and migration patterns worldwide |
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