The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest community science project in the United States with the first count taking place on December 25, 1900.  The history of this event has grown tremendously since then and occurs annual between December 14 and January 5, utilizing thousands of volunteers throughout the country.  Learn more about the history of this project. 

Venice Area Audubon Society, a long-time participant in this project, adds to the national bird count by surveying the local Venice-Englewood area annually on one designated morning.  Over 100 volunteers survey a 15-mile circumference circle extending from downtown Venice to I-75 to Manasota Key.  Volunteers proceed to specific locations to observe and record the species and number of birds sighted, then report the information to the VAAS Christmas Bird Count coordinator for submission to National Audubon.  New volunteers are always welcome!