Every year, birders across North America participate in one of the longest-running wildlife surveys: the Audubon Christmas Bird Count (CBC). From December 14, 2025, through January 5, 2026, Central Texas will host numerous counts, offering an opportunity to contribute to valuable science while enjoying the outdoors during the holiday season.
The CBC isn’t just for expert birders—anyone with an interest in birds can participate. Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a budding enthusiast, or a family looking for a festive nature activity, there’s a place for you. Participants help document bird populations, contributing to a century-long dataset that guides conservation efforts and helps scientists understand changes in bird numbers, migration patterns, and habitat use.
How the Counts Work
Each CBC takes place in an established 15-mile (24-km) diameter circle and is organized by a count compiler. Volunteers follow specified routes within the circle, counting every bird they see or hear all day. It’s not just a species tally—every individual bird is counted, providing a snapshot of the total number of birds in the area on that day.
Birders of all skill levels are welcome. If you’re a beginner, your compiler will pair you with an expert for guidance, so you can learn while contributing valuable data.
Austin Christmas Bird Count
The Austin CBC (tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 20, 2025) is the longest-running citizen science bird monitoring program in Central Texas. Centered near McKinney Falls State Park, participants survey a 15-mile diameter circle encompassing a mix of urban and rural habitats. This venerable tradition began in 1953 and regularly attracts over 100 participants. Bird numbers vary annually but usually range from 130 to 150 species.
If you’re interested in joining this year’s Austin CBC, contact Tyler Miloy at austincbc@gmail.com to pre-register. The Austin count is traditionally held on the first Saturday within the count window, making it a perfect weekend activity for birders of all skill levels.
Westcave Preserve Christmas Bird Count
The Westcave Preserve CBC, taking place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, offers a chance to explore one of Central Texas’s most beautiful natural areas. Volunteers survey birds across Westcave’s scenic canyons, riparian zones, and woodlands, contributing crucial data while experiencing the preserve’s winter beauty.
Other Central Texas Counts
Some additional counts happening this season include:
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Balcones Canyonlands (TXBC): December 15
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Bastrop-Buescher State Park (TXBB): January 1
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West Kerr County (TXWK): December 29
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San Marcos (TXSM): December 14
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And many more across Bell County, Burnet, Boerne, Fort Hood, and beyond.
For a full list of Central Texas counts and dates, visit the Central Texas Christmas Bird Counts page or the Audubon CBC map and use the zoom feature to explore local locations. If you are a count compiler, please send your details to webmaster@houstonaudubon.org.
Why Join a Christmas Bird Count?
Participating in the CBC is a rewarding way to connect with nature, meet fellow bird enthusiasts, and contribute to meaningful conservation science. Every bird you spot adds to a growing dataset that informs habitat protection and species management nationwide. Plus, there’s a special joy in spending crisp winter mornings outdoors, binoculars in hand, discovering the rich diversity of Central Texas birds.
Whether you join the Austin CBC, explore Westcave Preserve, or visit another count circle nearby, this holiday season is a perfect time to give back to nature and experience the thrill of citizen science firsthand.
Photo Credit: Jeff Patterson
