What is “Celebrate Birds” Month and the LWC Birdathon?
“Celebrate Birds” is our month-long celebration of the phenomenon that is spring migration in Loudoun County and an opportunity to spotlight World Migratory Bird Day on May 9. Celebrate Birds happens this year from April 18 to May 17.
At Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, we celebrate with a variety of inspiring bird walks, events, and our most anticipated fundraising event of the year: the Loudoun Wildlife Birdathon.
What’s a Birdathon? It’s like a walk-a-thon, but we count bird species instead of miles. It’s a fun, inspiring way to connect with nature while protecting it at the same time! All are welcome, whether you’re an expert birder or just love watching birds in your backyard! All funds raised support Loudoun Wildlife’s ongoing mission: to protect, preserve and restore wildlife habitat. See what previous participants have said about the Birdathon.
Form a Birdathon Team
Team registration is NOW OPEN! Our goal is to field at least 20 teams this year, which would be an all-time record. Help us get there by forming your Birdathon team today. Teams can be made up of no less than two and no more than six. ALL are welcome, from beginners to experts. The Birdathon is all about fun, getting out in nature, and learning more about the birds of Loudoun County.
When you sign up, you’ll select either a 24-hour or 48-hour period that falls somewhere between April 18-May 17, which is “Celebrate Birds” month. During that period, you and your team will identify as many bird species as you can wherever you can, and you’ll submit that information to Loudoun Wildlife. Your team will then look to enlist sponsors (family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, businesses, your employer), asking them to support your team with either a fixed amount or on a per species basis (e.g. $1 per species identified).
Data you collect is used in broaders studies related to bird populations and migration patterns in Loudoun County and nationwide. That makes you and your team community scientists! Check out the “Resources” section below for much more info, and click the button below to form your Birdathon team today!
Support a Team
You can support a team (even your own) by making a flat donation OR making a pledge by species. All money raised goes to support Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and our crucial Education, Community Science, Advocacy, and Habitat Restoration work in Loudoun County. Choose the appropriate button below to make your Birdathon donation and support your favorite team today!
Rules and Resources
Here’s a helpful list of resources you can use to learn more about the Birdathon and its rules, the “Celebrate Birds” walks we’ll be offering during the Birdathon period (April 18-May 17), tips to have the best experience possible, and much more.
2026 Birdathon Sponsors
We’re so grateful for our 2026 Birdathon sponsors! Click on their logos to visit their websites and express YOUR support for THEIR support.
