Admiralty Audubon is set to host its Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, Dec. 17 The annual continent-wide survey aims to document every bird seen on a given day from sunrise to sunset. Since the turn of the 20th century, the bird count has contributed to the knowledge base of wintering birds in North America, according to a press release.

The count is an all-day event open to anyone wishing to participate, and is an opportunity for novice bird watchers to join with seasoned veterans and learn more about identifying and finding the local birds, said organizers.

Half-day participants and home-feeder watchers are also welcome.

Audubon would like to particularly encourage anyone with feeders in the count circle who can spare at least one hour to watch their yard to participate. Winter feeder watching can be quite rewarding as birds try to expend the least amount of energy to get the greatest amount of food.

The Admiralty Audubon count circle is a 7.5-mile radius centered near Indian Island ship dock that is divided into 13 sections.

A team of three or more individuals is assigned to each section.

Team leaders for each section are to make arrangements with the rest of their group for a meeting place and time (usually between 7:30 and 8 a.m.) the morning of the count.

A post-count potluck is to be held at 5 p.m., Dec. 17 at the RoseWind Common House, 3131 Haines St. in Port Townsend.

For more information contact Dan Waggoner at 301-1788 or

danwags57@gmail.com.