Christmas Bird Count
Dear Editor: As Sitka residents know, our community cherishes a rich tapestry of natural beauty and wildlife. A wonderful way to spend time outdoors with family and friends is by participating in an annual event that both educates and unites bird enthusiasts and avian caregivers alike – the Audubon’s 125th Christmas Bird Count!
I am thrilled to announce that on December 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. AKDT, the Alaska Raptor Center will host a planning meeting, which features an informative slide show featuring local bird species you might spot during the annual count. We encourage residents and visitors to get involved in this important annual tradition. During this gathering, we will review an overview of the information that you need to join the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, which commences all day on December 21, 2024. It is a special opportunity for experienced birders to contribute to vital conservation efforts while also enjoying the natural wonders of Sitka.
The annual Christmas Bird Count is more than just a bird-watching event; it is the largest community collaboration undertaken to help us understand avian populations and associated trends globally. Our participation will help contribute to a tradition that has brought thousands of volunteers from across Alaska, Hawaii, and the contiguous 48 states together, improving bird conservation for over a century.
To join, simply follow a few steps: familiarize yourself with the Christmas Bird Count details through the Audubon website, join the kick-off for the Sitka count circle, and contact our area organizer, Dr. Victoria Vosburg, in advance. Signing up for the American Birds newsletter will keep you informed about the findings and impact of your contributions to the count.
For those of you not experienced in birding but interested in learning more, Dr. Victoria Vosburg recommends starting with a bird feeder in your yard. She is available to field questions for identifying birds all year long. To connect with Dr. Vic, send messages to her by email at baldeaglevet@gmail.com.
We encourage everyone – whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or newcomer – to attend the kickoff at the Alaska Raptor Center, engage with fellow enthusiasts, and become part of a larger movement. It’s a chance for fun, learning, and making a real difference in the preservation of wild bird populations.
Let’s come together to become vibrant contributors to this landmark Audubon event. Whether you plan to scout, count, or share your sightings and photos through the CBC Live Tracker, your involvement in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count will make a difference. We invite everyone to come by the Alaska Raptor Center for the planning meeting, free and open to the public, ahead of the count on December 18 to watch Dr. Vic’s slide show featuring our local avian species and enjoy light refreshments.
We look forward to seeing many of you at the Alaska Raptor Center to celebrate the cross-section of feathered creatures that grace our shared Southeast Aleutian sky. And be sure to fill up your bird feeders on the big day – December 21! Warm regards,
Carol Bryant-Martin
Executive Director
Alaska Raptor Center
Thank You, Denise
Dear Editor: I wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sitka’s Public Health Nurse Denise Damewood, BSN, RN, MAR, as her time in Sitka is coming to an end.
She came to Sitka right before COVID-19 came crashing in like an unwanted and uninvited guest and was a voice for the community at both state and local levels. She has been a constant in the ‘‘little brick building’’ for numerous services for Sitka’s health over the last five years.
In a community where things are changing quickly, knowing our public health nurse is there to assist us is reassuring.
Thank you, Denise, for your work within our community and beyond. You will be missed. Warmly,
Kat Richards, RN, BSN
Sitka Community Member
