Global Big Day
Count Birds to Save Birds: May 9, 2026
Global Big Day, formerly Birdathon, is an annual tradition and an important fundraiser for Birds Connect Seattle. It’s like a walk-a-thon, but you count bird species instead of walking laps or miles. Participants gather pledges and donations from friends, family, and coworkers to support Birds Connect Seattle’s mission. Then, they identify as many species as they can for a fun and friendly birding competition. This event is open to all levels of experience in bird identification and fundraising—no prior experience in either is needed to have fun and be successful!
Who Can Participate
Anyone residing in Washington State (or visiting WA, for that matter) can sign up to participate. Species can be counted anywhere in the state, from your own backyard to your neighborhood park to a national forest or state park.
As you join in the fun, we ask all participants to follow Birds Connect Seattle’s Code of Conduct.
If this event is your annual tradition, or if you are just getting started learning about birds, please use this as an opportunity to appreciate birds in your own way, at your own pace, and at every skill level.
Prizes
You can win some wonderful birdy prizes, from places such as Socksmith and Aspects feeders, during Global Big Day. The more you fundraise, the more you can get!
We have special prizes for participants who raise $250 and $500 or more. Additionally, we offer individual and team prizes for our top fundraisers, those with the highest number of donors, and those who count the most bird species.
See past prizes here: Birdathon Prizes 2025.pdf
Tools for Fundraising Success
Raise more for the birds!
Fundraising may seem daunting, but if you view it as an opportunity to share your love of birds and nature with your friends and family, it can be fun!
Take a look at our Fundraising Tips & Tricks to help you get started. We can also offer examples of fundraising email templates, social media posts, and more.
You can also always reach out to Ella Denman, our Development & Operations Associate, with any questions.
Species Count
While participating in Global Big Day on May 9th, you will conduct your species count and record any species that you see/hear. If you’d like to report and submit your data beyond just your species count, we encourage you to use eBird.
You can also use the handy Washington Bird Checklist as a reference during your count.
Frequently Asked Question for Participants
How can I get support with Fundraising? Feel free to reach out to us at ellad@birdsconnectsea.org. We can help you develop a personal fundraising plan.
What if I’m having trouble with the registration process? Read our tips about getting set up as an individual or a team. Still have questions, contact Ella Denman at ellad@birdsconnectsea.org.
How long do I have to fundraise? To be considered for our fundraising prizes, please have all donations to Birds Connect Seattle in by May 11. Birds Connect Seattle accepts donations 365 days a year, so even if your donations arrive after the deadline, they still support our mission and work.
Frequently Asked Questions for Donors
Is my gift tax-deductible?
Birds Connect Seattle is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization, and your donation is tax-deductible according to U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We’ll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation.
Do I receive a receipt?
A donation receipt will be sent to you at the email address you provide on the form. Please be sure to keep a copy of your receipt for tax purposes. If you select a recurring donation, you will be sent an individual receipt each month when your donation is processed.
Does my donation count for my membership?
Yes, people who donate $49 or more qualify for a one-year household membership to Birds Connect Seattle.
“It is so fun getting to raise money for an amazing organization, all while birding!”
-Katie, Birdathon 2021 participant
“More birdy magic than I can recount unfolded that 24-hour period.  It’s going to be near impossible to top this Birdathon Big Day with its many serendipitous moments. Until next time…just keep birding! “
-Robin, Birdathon 2023 participant
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors and Prize Donors
