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Man and Woman birding, both with binoculars, marsh behind them.

Bird-a-thon Resources and Activities

Looking to up your Bird-a-thon game? Check out these resources that will elevate your birding and fundraising skills.

Bird Checklists

Two versions of Bird-a-thon checklists (taxonomic and alphabetical) will help you keep track of what species you identify.

Download

Get Social

Spread the word on social with our branded graphic. Be sure to tag @massaudubon and use #mabirdathon.

Download

Raise Money

Need help fundraising for Bird-a-thon? Check out our suggested messages to help reach your goal.

Download

Spring Optics Sale in the Mass Audubon Shop

Birding Gear

From optics to field guides, the Mass Audubon shop in Lincoln and online has everything you need for your Bird-a-thon adventure.

Shop Now

Featured Stories

  • black and white warbler on side of tree
    Black-and-white Warbler

    What in the Warblers?

    Every May, warblers migrate north from their southern winter locations in their colorful breeding plumage, giving birders the chance for a closer look at these spectacular winged beauties. Check out where and what to look for.

  • A woman in a pink shirt using forearm crutches looks up into the lush green canopy, pausing to rest at a bench along Stony Brook's wheelchair-accessible All Persons Trail
    Stony Brook, Norfolk

    Bird-a-thon for All: Accessible Birding Programs

    Wildlife sanctuaries across the state are hosting accessible birding programs during Bird-a-thon from May 10–11.

  • Yellow and black warbler perched in tree branch
    Black Throated Green Warbler

    Great Bird Migration Spots

    Here are a few of Mass Audubon’s favorite birding spots to visit during spring migration. Find out why we love them, what you'll see, and how to make the most of your visit.

  • An Eastern Phoebe calls out from a bare branch.

    Waseeka Wildlife Sanctuary, Hopkinton, MA © Robert Liscombe

    10 Common Bird Sounds

    We’ve pulled together 10 sounds and songs of birds that you may commonly hear in your yard or neighborhood, particularly in the spring. Listen to them enough times and you’ll be able to identify some of what you are hearing when you go outside.

  • Couple sitting on bench looking at bird guide together

    5 Best Gifts for Birdwatchers

    Birding isn't just a hobby; it's a passion that connects people with nature in profound ways. Here's a curated list, from the experts at Mass Audubon, of the best birdwatching gifts you can give. 

  • Sanderlings on beach
    Sanderlings © Leah Desrochers

    How to Become a Better Bird Photographer

    Learn the ins and outs of taking stellar bird photos. 

  • Savannah Sparrow singing in spring at Arcadia © Phil Doyle
    Savannah Sparrow at Arcadia © Phil Doyle

    Bird Songs vs Bird Calls

    What’s the difference between a bird song and a bird call, and which birds use what sounds?

  • An American Tree Sparrow is perched above the snow.

    Commonly Confused Birds

    Learn the subtle cues that differentiate these similar pairings. 

While You're Birding Activities

Challenge yourself while you're out birding with some fun, family-friendly activities to engage and challenge everyone while you bird. 

  • Pick up 10 pieces of trash.
  • Draw a picture of a bird.
  • Fill up your birdfeeder only if it won't attract unwanted wildlife* and/or make your own pine cone birdfeeder.
  • Complete a Bird-a-thon activity sheet (see below),

* If you live in an area where bear activity has been documented, all seed & suet feeders should be removed from April 1–November 1 to avoid attracting Black Bears.

Activity Sheets

Graphic of the Matching Game

Match the Birds

download Bird-a-thon Matching Game (83.7 kB)
Graphic of Scavenger Hunt

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

download Bird-a-thon Scavenger Hunt (99.4 kB)
Graphic of word search

Find the Words

download Bird-a-thon Word Search (96.8 kB)

Share Your Photos

We'd also love to see how you Bird-a-thon! There are several ways to share pictures of your completed activities with Mass Audubon and your fellow participants: