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Christmas Bird Count Comes To Theodore Roosevelt National Park January 4

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Great horned owls at Theodore Roosevelt National Park/NPS

Great horned owls, seen here in summer, are among the bird species you might spot in Theodore Roosevelt National Park during the annual Christmas Bird Count/NPS

Golden eagles, wild turkeys, black-capped chickadees, white-breasted nuthatches, and great-horned owls are among the bird species you might spot if you take part in the Christmas Bird Count at Theodore Roosevelt National Park on January 4.

The park counts more than 185 bird species, but not all of them stick around throughout the year. 

"You don't have to be an expert to take part in the Christmas Bird Count," said Ranger Amy McCann. "Beginners can team up with more experienced birders to learn birding basics, and everyone can try to add to their life lists. Birding is a great outdoor family activity that people of all ages can enjoy for a lifetime."

The count will cover an area with a 7.5-mile radius around Medora, North Dakota, at the south entrance to the national park. This year's count will be the 42nd for this area. Down through the years, more than 65 different species have been identified.

To participate, meet at the South Unit Visitor Center at 8 a.m. MST. Before heading out into the field, participants will be assigned to teams that will survey areas by driving and walking.

Birders should come in warm clothing and bring binoculars and field guides, if available. Hot drinks will be available at the visitor center.

You can prepare for the outing by downloading the park's bird list, found here, and familiarizing yourself with species found in the park in winter.

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