Join us the weekend of October 1st - 2nd, 2011

What is this Tailgate Bird Count?

The Tailgate Bird Count is basically a "Big Sit" event used as a fundraiser.

So what is a "Big Sit"?

The Big Sit idea was founded by the New Haven Bird Club in Connecticut in 1994. Each year Bird Watcher's Digest hosts the event, which has become an international affair. More info about the official Big Sit can be found at the Bird Watcher's Digest website. The idea is to stay within a pre-determined circle and count all of the bird species you can identify over a 24 hour timeframe.

So how is this a fundraiser?

Team members seek pledges from friends, families, coworkers, etc. which you collect from them later. The pledges are based on the number of birds your team sees during the event. ($.25 per bird for example) There is a $15 minimum team donation fee.

Don't you already do a fundraising event?

We used to. The event almost universally consisted of each county's best birders. It was a great fundraiser but experience was a limiting factor that left most people out. So we thought we'd try something that anyone could join.

Do I have to be a "great" birder to do the Tailgate Bird Count?

No! Just identify as many species as you can from within your count area. The more you know the better your list will be of course but anyone, of any experience level, can participate.

So what's the quick explanation of what I need to do?

1) Choose a location
2) Register your location
3) Round up some team members
4) Gather pledges
5) Bird-watch!

Well that seems easy enough! I'm ready for more details!

Good! See the sidebar to the right to download the Circle Captain's Start-Up Kit. Everything you need to know is in there. If you don't have time to participate but would like to help you can make a pledge to a team listed on the right. Send the Team Captain your pledge and contact information.