As the annual Christmas Bird Count approaches its conclusion, Tracy Aviary in South Salt Lake, Utah, is taking steps to engage the Latino and Spanish-speaking community. On January 4, 2024, from noon to 14:00, the aviary will host a bilingual bird counting event at its Nature Center located at 3310 S. 1000 West. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote inclusivity within outdoor activities and conservation efforts.
The Christmas Bird Count, which began on December 14 and runs until January 5, is a nationwide initiative organized by the National Audubon Society. It provides an opportunity for individuals to help monitor bird populations across the country. For the first time, Tracy Aviary will offer a Spanish-speaking guide during this event, aiming to foster greater participation from the Latino community.
Jacki Ortiz, who manages social media and marketing for Tracy Aviary, emphasized the importance of making outdoor activities accessible to everyone. She noted that some members of the Latino community view outdoor pursuits as labor-intensive rather than recreational. “There hasn’t been that entry point that nature and the outdoors is for everyone,” Ortiz stated. The goal of the bilingual event is to shift this perception, highlighting that nature can be enjoyed for leisure and relaxation.
Participants of all experience levels are encouraged to join the bird count. Attendees will walk designated areas, recording the bird species they observe. This data is crucial for wildlife managers and conservation organizations, as highlighted by Tonya Kieffer-Selby, outreach manager for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Northeastern Region. She noted, “Ultimately, this data helps wildlife managers and conservation organizations make informed decisions on species management.”
The significance of the Christmas Bird Count extends beyond a simple tally of birds. Recent studies indicate that North America has lost over 3 billion birds in the past 50 years, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts. The data collected during the count aids in assessing the overall health of bird populations and guides necessary conservation actions for species survival.
While many of the Christmas Bird Count activities across Utah have already taken place, Tracy Aviary’s bilingual initiative marks a significant step toward inclusivity and community involvement in conservation. As the event approaches, the hope is that it will inspire more individuals from the Latino community to appreciate and engage with the natural world.
