Red-breasted Nuthatch—Photo: Mick Thompson
Climate Watch Winter Survey
By Joyce Volmut, Climate Watch Coordinator
The winter survey period for Audubon’s Climate Watch program is coming up quickly: January 15 through February 15, 2026.
What is Climate Watch?
In 2019, National Audubon released Survival by Degrees, a landmark report showing that two‑thirds of North American bird species are at risk of extinction due to climate change and other human‑driven impacts. The report analyzed 604 bird species using more than 140 million bird records, including observations contributed by community scientists.
Audubon scientists then modeled how changing climate conditions and habitat needs—such as foraging areas, nesting habitat, and food availability—affect each of the 604 species. The report examines variables like global water measurements, wetland classifications, and species‑specific range maps. It also projects how birds may respond under different warming scenarios (1.5°, 2.0°, and 3.0° F), showing which species may shift their ranges and which may struggle to adapt.
This research forms the foundation of Climate Watch, a National Audubon community science program that uses standardized protocols to survey birds during two windows each year:
Breeding season: May 15–June 15
Winter season: January 15–February 15
These surveys help test the model’s predictions and track how birds are adapting over time.
See which species are at risk in Clallam County.
Target Species
Climate Watch focuses on four primary species groups, plus Painted Bunting subspecies. The target species are bluebirds, nuthatches, towhees, American Goldfinches, and Painted Buntings.
In our region, this includes Mountain Bluebird, Western Bluebird, Red-breasted Nuthatch, American Goldfinch, Lesser Goldfinch, and Spotted Towhee.
By participating, you help verify climate models and assess how well these species are adapting to changing conditions.
How Climate Watch Differs from Other Bird Counts
Climate Watch surveys are short and standardized. Each survey point is observed for exactly 5 minutes. While you record every bird you see or hear, only the target species are used in the study’s analysis.
Climate Watch Survey Protocols
Choose your survey area. This can be your backyard, your neighborhood, or any location with suitable habitat for the target species.
Select your survey day(s). You may complete as many survey points as you wish within the January 15–February 15 window.
Each survey lasts 5 minutes. Keep the timing consistent for every point.
Count all birds seen or heard during each 5‑minute period.
Record your observations in eBird. If you do not use eBird, contact me for a tally sheet: joyce.volmut@gmail.com
Submit your results. Share your eBird checklists with me directly or email/mail your tally sheet.
Note habitat features. Please indicate whether your survey location includes nest boxes or feeders.
If you or anyone you know is interested in volunteering, please contact me at joyce.volmut@gmail.com