Oh what fun was had by all! The 57th Annual Evergreen Christmas Bird Count, held on December 14, 2025, was another memorable day of community science and camaraderie. The morning started out brisk at 29 degrees but warmed beautifully into the afternoon, reaching a spring-like 62 degrees. This unusually warm start to winter likely influenced bird activity, with many feeder counters reporting fewer birds than typical for December.
Despite the weather quirks, participation was strong with 116 total observers — 75 field observers and 41 feeder counters — a terrific turnout. Many thanks to all who participated and especially to our dedicated area leaders for coordinating teams and coverage across the count circle.
Species numbers are still being reviewed, and the final report will be completed soon and posted on the Evergreen Audubon website. A few highlights already stand out: Williamson’s Sapsucker (2) was new to the count this year, with individuals seen in two different parts of the circle, and Yellow-rumped Warblers (2) were clearly enjoying the warm conditions. Among our regulars, 2025 was truly the year of the Red-breasted Nuthatch, with 198 counted, up sharply from 62 in 2024. Other notable totals included Mountain Chickadee (1,040) — hopefully enough to continue our streak to 18-years as the national high count — Steller’s Jay (423), up from 360 last year, and Pygmy Nuthatch (1,210), down from 1,510 in 2024.
The day wrapped up with a lively Tally Rally featuring chili, all the fixings, and an impressive spread of sides and desserts. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the potluck and helped make it such a warm and welcoming end to the day.
The tentative date for the 58th Evergreen Christmas Bird Count is December 20, 2026, and we hope to see everyone back again. Please help us recruit neighbors, friends, and fellow birders — share the stories, the laughs, and the new friendships that come from count day. We can always use more eyes!
Thanks again to all who made this year’s count such a success. 🐦
Chris & Holly Marr
Evergreen / Idaho Springs CBC Coordinators