Upcoming events

Whether you're a beginning bird watcher or an advanced birder, come and help gather data on birds at the Ouray National Wildlife Refuge! We are partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Audubon Society to host the 20th annual Ouray Christmas Bird Count. This will also mark Audubon's 125th Christmas Bird Count. Support over a century's worth of bird conservation work and enjoy a day exploring the great outdoors!

What to expect:

• Meet at 8 a.m. at the Ouray National Wildlife Refuge visitor's office parking lot. Please call the Refuge at 435-545-2522 (ext. 112) if you need directions.
• This is a great time of year to experience birds in one of the Uintah Basin's hidden little secrets. There is a high chance you will also see many porcupines, mule deer and other wildlife species that frequent the refuge.
• The count takes place in an established 15-mile diameter circle.
• Bird count volunteers will follow specified routes through the circle and count every bird they see or hear throughout the day. If you are a beginning birder, you will be able to join a group that includes at least one experienced birder.
• We will have a briefing in the parking lot to discuss count areas and assign groups.

What to bring:

• Binoculars. We will have extra binoculars for your group if you need them.
• Water and food for the day.
• Dress for the weather. There are no amenities in the survey area, so plan accordingly.

Note: If you can't make it to the Ouray count and would still like to participate in Utah, check out Audubon's Christmas Bird Count maps to volunteer for a count near you: https://www.audubon.org/conservation/join-christmas-bird-count.

Event Contacts:

Tonya Kieffer-Selby at 801-995-2972 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Anthony Christianson at 435-828-0008 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..