Third Annual Golf Course Bird Count (GCBC)
Objective: Golf courses serve as valuable habitats for a variety of wildlife, including birds. The Golf Course Bird Count (GCBC) aims to highlight the diversity of bird species utilizing golf courses, whether as nesting sites, food sources, or rest stops during migration. This annual count will also offer a unique opportunity for participants and outsiders to appreciate the natural beauty of golf course environments.
Event Details:
● Date Range: Monday, November 16, 2026 - Sunday, November 22, 2026
● Duration: 24-hour period (choose any single day within the week)
Instructions:
1. Select a Day: Choose one day within the event week to conduct your bird count.
2. Species Count: Record all different species of birds observed from your property within the 24-hour period. This is a species count, not a total bird count. For example, if you see 20 American Robins, you only need to report the species “American Robin,” not the number seen.
3. Facilities and Amenities: Please provide easy parking, access to bathrooms, and possibly refreshments to encourage outside participation.
4. Contact Information / Questions?: Email mattceplo@gmail.com with the following information:
○ Confirmation of your golf course’s participation.
○ Request for assistance with bird identification if needed.
○ Your interest in participating as a birder.
5. Designate a Contact Person: Assign a contact person, preferably the course Superintendent or a designated representative, to coordinate the count and communication.
6. Equipment Needed: Participants should bring their own transportation, binoculars, and weather-appropriate clothing.
7. Documentation: Take notes of all bird species observed. Bird count forms will be provided for each course. Attached are an instruction sheet and a bird checklist to assist with your observations
8. Submission: Submit the completed bird lists, including all species observed, to the designated contact.
Benefits of Participation:
● Contribute to the understanding of how golf courses support avian biodiversity.
● Gain insights into the natural world present in your golf course environment.
● Showcase the environmental value of golf courses to the broader community.
For questions, please contact Matt Ceplo at mattceplo@gmail.com or (201) 965-7641
