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Birdathon

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What is the Birdathon? It’s a bird-watching event during peak migration in which participants try to identify as many bird species as possible.

Birdathon is also a great fundraising event for Maine Audubon, supporting our mission to conserve Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat. Whether you are a serious, casual, or beginning birder, you can join in the fun!

How can I participate?

You don’t have to be out in the field to be a part of Birdathon. You can make a difference by raising money for your local Maine Audubon sanctuary that’s important to you.

Pledge to Support a team »

Sound Fun? Do you want to have your own team?
Register your own team using our online form » 

What are the rules

For All Participants

  • Count birds only if they are alive, outdoors, and unrestrained.
  • Count birds at feeders and attract birds by using recorded bird songs if you wish.
  • Identify birds conclusively by sight or sound. If in doubt about a bird’s identity, don’t count it.
  • Be mindful of breeding birds and their habitats. In any conflict of interest between birds and birders, the welfare of the birds and their environment must come first.
  • Pack binoculars, sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable shoes, water, layers of clothing, field guides and maps.
  • Plan to take frequent breaks and bring plenty of snacks.
  • Come up with a fabulous and fun name for your team.
  • Decide what your route and time frame will be for your birding expedition. How much time do you want to spend out in the field? Where do you want to go? What time of day is optimal to see the bird you want to see?
  • Pat yourself on the back. You’re raising money for a great cause – Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat!

For Competitive Teams

  • Form a team with a minimum of two members.
  • All counting must be done within a single 24-hour period.
  • Any geographic area may be covered within the state of Maine.
  • At least two team members must conclusively identify each species seen.
  • Travel may be by any means. When motorized vehicles are used, all team members must travel in the same vehicle.
  • Make a reasonable effort to have each team member identify every species counted.

For Noncompetitive Teams

  • Form a team of one or any number of participants.
  • Gather pledges from family and friends, and at work, school, or play.

Tips on how to get pledges?

  • Start by setting a goal. Then pledge yourself and write that information at the top of your sponsor form. It will show everyone you ask your commitment to raising money.
  • Remember that flat rate pledges can be collected at the time of the pledge. This makes your follow up easier!
  • Be ready to share why you are personally supporting Maine Audubon through Birdathon
  • Take your pledge form wherever you go. Bring it with you to work and keep it on your desk by your phone. Take it with you to church coffee hour, sports events, the gym, and on early morning bird walks!
  • Ask family, friends, relatives, work associates, neighbors, etc. to support your participation in Birdathon. Use the sample solicitation to email your group contact list. And, send out an email to five friends and ask them to send out an email to five friends and so on.
  • Make sure you thank your sponsors and keep your sponsor form. It’ll make your pledge collection easier next year!