North Texas residents are invited to take part in the 2026 Great Backyard Bird Count, a global citizen-science initiative taking place February 13–16. Led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in partnership with the National Audubon Society, the annual event encourages people of all experience levels to observe and count birds for at least 15 minutes, contributing valuable data that helps scientists track bird populations worldwide.

Several guided events across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex will support community participation. On February 14, River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington will host guided family bird walks, live bird presentations and observation stations, with volunteers available to assist participants in identifying local species. Trinity River Audubon Center in Dallas will offer special birding activities on February 15, including programs focused on climate and habitat awareness, as well as an evening woodcock observation event on February 13.

Participants may also take part independently by counting birds from backyards, balconies or local parks and submitting observations through established bird-tracking platforms. In 2025, more than 800,000 participants worldwide contributed sightings of over 8,000 bird species, helping researchers better understand the impacts of climate change and habitat loss on bird populations.

North Texans of all ages are encouraged to participate and help advance local and global conservation efforts.

What to Look For — Common North Texas Birds

• Northern Cardinal
• Blue Jay
• Carolina Chickadee
• American Robin
• Mourning Dove
• White-winged Dove
• Red-bellied Woodpecker
• Downy Woodpecker
• Cedar Waxwing
• Carolina Wren

Tip: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best viewing opportunities.

For more information on how to participate, visit BirdCount.org.