Cornell’s Global Big Day 2018

In a few weeks, on May 5^th, birders from every corner of the globe will unite on the biggest birding day of the year, Cornell’s Global Big Day in a show of support for conservation worldwide.  Last year saw worldwide over 20,000 participants in more than 160 countries submitting over 54,000 checklists consisting of 6,637 bird species.

Bank Swallow from 2017 CGBD

During that year Barbados saw 3 participants who recorded a new CGBD high for the island of 53 species from 15 checklists.  This included a few rarities such as Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus and Pacific Golden-Plover Pluvialis fulva and unexpected migrants like Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos and Bank Swallow Riparia riparia.  

I have already started scouting and planning my route for that day, taking note of the location and movement of specific birds to maximize their sightings.  I have set a goal of 55 species which would be a new high for the Big Day.  

The date is set, the planning is at an advanced stage, the excitement is building.  Wherever you are in the world, whatever your birding skill level, join me and over 20,000 participants in more than 160 countries on May 5^th for the Cornell’s Global Big Day 2018.