The Salida Christmas bird count this year will be on Saturday, December 17th. If you have never been on a Christmas Count before there’s lots of information on the Audubon website about its history, purpose, and what you can expect during the day. https://www.audubon.org/conservation/join-christmas-bird-count It began long ago as an alternative to hunting birds on Christmas Day, 1900! Our Salida count began in 2003. Every count is done in a predetermined 15 mile diameter circle; the Salida count extends from just east of town, west to the Shavano campground, north to Hecla Junction and south to Mears Junction.
Beginner birders are definitely welcome and will be teamed up with more experienced birders. So, please don’t feel like you need to be an expert. You just need to bring binoculars, dress for the weather, and plan to start close to dawn and at least make it to lunchtime when we’ll gather together at the CPW building on Rt. 50. Some areas require more walking, others more driving. If you live within the circle and have a bird feeder, it is possible to participate from home. You should feel free to pass this on to others you may know who might be interested.
If you would like to participate or would just like more information please respond directly to Sally Waterhouse(smwaterh@owu.edu).
Many GARNA programs require a Liability Release Form be filled out each calendar year.
Your registration is secured upon receipt of payment, as long as there space is still available in a program. If you prefer not to register online (recommended), you may mail a check, made out to “GARNA” to the address below or stop by the office. Please include a note with the program you are registering for. Be aware, some programs sell out quickly, and we cannot confirm your spot with a mailed registration.
PO Box 1522
Salida CO 81201
Cancellation policy:
If we are notified of your need to cancel by 24 hours of program date, your program fee will be refunded except for a $3.00 administrative fee. No refunds within 24 hours or after the event (but most events are transferable). If minimum enrollment has not been met 2 days before program date, programs will be cancelled and we will refund the full amount.
