Organized annually by the National Audubon Society, the Christmas Bird Count (CBC) involves thousands of volunteers across North America and beyond who come together to count and document bird species within designated areas. The data collected help researchers monitor the health and status of bird populations, providing valuable insights into the impacts of environmental changes on bird species. Omaha's CBC takes place on Dec. 14. If you are interested in taking part, please email Bob Wells at rcwells@cox.net.

If you are an experienced bird counter without an assigned survey area, report to the Fontenelle Forest visitor center between 7:30 and 8 a.m. on Dec. 14, and you will be assigned to a trail. For newcomers, arrive between 8 and 8:30 a.m., and you will then join Bob Wells, Hannah Miller, or another experienced counter to help survey a trail at Fontenelle Forest. The event is free with daily admission to the park (free passes are available through the Omaha Public Library).