If your kids have ever shouted, “Mom! Look at that red bird!” — this one’s for you.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is happening February 13–16, and it’s one of the easiest (and honestly most peaceful) ways for Roanoke families to get outside together this winter.
For four days, families across the country — and around the world — will spend at least 15 minutes counting the birds they see. That’s it. No experience required. No special equipment needed. Just a little time and a bit of curiosity.
And yes, your backyard totally counts.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada. The simple lists families submit help scientists understand how bird populations are doing and how migration patterns are changing.
But for most of us?
It’s just a really good excuse to slow down and notice what’s flying around our own neighborhood.
How Roanoke Families Can Participate
It’s simple:
- Pick a spot — your yard, porch, neighborhood park, or favorite trail.
- Watch birds for at least 15 minutes on one or more days between Feb. 13–16.
- Submit what you see using the free Merlin Bird ID app or eBird.
That’s it.
If your backyard is quiet, try:
- Mill Mountain Park
- Carvins Cove
- Any local Greenway Trail
- South County Library Wetland Trail
Even a short walk can turn into a mini bird-spotting adventure.
What You’ll Probably See Around Here
February in the Roanoke Valley usually means:
• Bright red Northern Cardinals
• Chatty Carolina Chickadees
• Tufted Titmice with their little gray crests
• Blue Jays making their presence known
• Mourning Doves gathered on the ground
• Downy Woodpeckers tapping away
• Goldfinches in their winter brown coats
Once kids start noticing them, they don’t stop.
Make It Fun for Kids
If you want to turn it into more than just standing outside:
- Print a simple checklist and let kids mark what they see
- Use the Merlin app to identify birds by sound (they love this)
- Make homemade bird feeders ahead of time — our cookie-cutter bird feeder tutorial is a fun way to prep
- Turn it into a friendly family challenge: who can spot the most species?
You can keep it as low-key or competitive as your family likes.
A Simple Winter Reset
There’s something surprisingly calming about standing still for 15 minutes and looking up.
In the middle of winter schedules, practices, and the usual chaos, this is an easy win. It gets everyone outside. It sparks curiosity. And it connects our little corner of Roanoke to something happening across the globe.
So bundle up, pour the coffee, and see what’s visiting your yard this February.
Count those birds, Roanoke.
