Hundreds of birders have kicked off the 43rd Annual World Series of Birding across New Jersey, embarking on a relentless 24-hour race to identify as many bird species as possible between midnight and midnight on May 9. This intense competition combines passion with conservation efforts as participants chase both day and night birds during peak spring migration.
The event, hosted by New Jersey Audubon, is the state’s largest birding fundraiser and attracts 85 registered teams from across the country, including professional birders and casual enthusiasts. Teams strive not only to spot but also to hear birds, recognizing species by their distinct calls throughout the night and next day.
The Night Shift: Owls and Nocturnal Migrants
Only the most determined start at midnight, facing the daunting challenge of birding through hours of darkness. In southern New Jersey, owl species such as the Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Barn Owl, and Eastern Screech Owl come alive, vocalizing in unique patterns that help birders log crucial early species. The rhythmic hooting of the Barred Owl—“Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all”—signals the start of an active nocturnal hunt.
Beyond owls, spring migrating songbirds take to the skies at night to avoid daytime predators like hawks. These birds emit faint chip notes during their flights, enabling expert listeners to identify species purely by sound, despite not seeing them. Notable nighttime singers include Eastern Whip-poor-wills and elusive rails such as the King Rail, Yellow Rail, and rare Black Rail.
Dawn and Daylight: The Big Push for Species
As dawn breaks, teams ramp up efforts during the critical early bird chorus, often spotting owls in places like Cape May County. By 9:00 a.m., most teams tally more than half their daily species, switching focus to marsh birds like egrets, herons, and ducks, as well as coastal birds including gulls, terns, and diving gannets. Participants scan skies for raptors and other fly-bys, with patience and timing proving vital.
Mid-afternoon offers a brief lull, with top teams sometimes taking short breaks before pushing through the final hours. Every species counts in this intense competition, underscoring the meticulous attention required for success.
Conservation at the Core
Since its inception, the World Series of Birding has served as a vital fundraiser for wildlife and habitat conservation. Proceeds directly support New Jersey Audubon and feature as a vehicle for dozens of other groups to raise money for critical environmental initiatives.
Recognizing the event’s intensity, organizers have diversified participation options, allowing teams to focus on local counties, pursue carbon-free birding, or stay stationary in a “Big Stay” strategy, relying on bird activity at fixed sites. Teams affiliated with New Jersey Audubon face no fees and prioritize fun and engagement while raising funds.
Birding enthusiasts and supporters can still engage by donating online or following team progress at the New Jersey Audubon website. The event promises exhilarating sightings and a shared mission to protect North America’s diverse bird populations.
Why It Matters for US Birders Today
This nonstop, 24-hour spectacle exemplifies birding as a dynamic, thrilling pursuit rather than a daytime hobby. Across the United States, spring migration peaks now, not only drawing global attention to New Jersey’s coastal flyways but also spotlighting the urgent need for habitat protection as bird populations face mounting threats. For Nevada’s birders and nationwide enthusiasts, the World Series is an inspiring challenge and fundraiser encouraging both passion and conservation action right now.
Visit www.njaudubon.org to learn more, support teams, and follow this evolving event live.
