December marks the start of one of the most exciting activities of the year in Galápagos: the Christmas Bird Count. Now in its ninth consecutive year, this event, organized by the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) in collaboration with key partners, combines science, community, and fun to celebrate and protect the incredible diversity of birds on our islands.
Two Ways to Participate: Your Choice!
This year, the Christmas Bird Count offers you two exciting ways to get involved:
- The Collectible Album
Perfect for the whole family, the Christmas Bird Count Album is a fun and educational way to learn about birds while exploring nature.
How does it work?
- Register: Starting December 1, contact the ECO Program on your island to sign up and receive your album:
- San Cristóbal: 0988748712
- Isabela: 0960144417
- Santa Cruz: 0980292356
- Take photos: Explore your island and photograph birds in their natural habitats.
- Exchange for stickers: For every five photos of the same species, you’ll earn a sticker to complete your album.
- Bonus photos: Capture special species for double the chances in the prize draw. (Optional but exciting!)
Prizes for completing your album:
- A special edition Casio watch.
- Vortex binoculars, courtesy of Fundación Jocotoco.
- “El Albatros ondulado” book.
- And many more surprises!
Submit your completed album to the Programa ECO offices by January 26, 2025, to participate in the prize draw on January 31, 20
2. The On-Site Bird Count – December 21
For those who love group exploration, the on-site bird count offers the perfect opportunity to head out into the field with experts and fellow nature enthusiasts.
How to join:
- Registration deadline: Friday, December 20, 2024.
- Sign up: Contact 0980292356.
- Choose your route: Three routes are available, but spaces are limited—don’t miss out!
Rashid Cruz/CDF
Get ready for an exciting day:
Learn about the birds that inhabit our islands and contribute directly to a global effort to monitor their populations.
Why Participate?
The Christmas Bird Count is not just a recreational activity; it’s a key conservation tool. By photographing and counting birds, you help the Charles Darwin Foundation and its partners collect valuable data on these species and their habitats.
This event also reminds us of the importance of living in harmony with our biodiversity. This year, the activation of the "No More Birds on the Road" campaign aims to raise awareness and reduce accidents affecting birds on Galápagos roads.
The 2024 Christmas Bird Count invites you to learn, play, and collect while contributing to the conservation of Galápagos. Whether completing the album or joining the on-site count, this is your chance to be part of the change.
Information and registration: 0980292356
We extend our gratitude to Fundación Jocotoco, Galápagos Conservation Trust, Galápagos Science Center (USFQ), Fundación ECOS, and companies like Winrose and Hotel Blu Galápagos for making this event possible.
Join us to experience the magic of conservation in this exciting Christmas Bird Count!