The Panama Audubon Society is once again conducting one of the most important scientific works that takes place on the isthmus, a job that doesn't require a degree in ornithology. Matter of fact, the society wants your help and you hardly need any formal education at all.

This is the annual Christmas Bird Count, largely performed by amateurs, which in more ways than most people realize tracks this country's environmental trends. It's also a way for the society to recruit active members, do a little fundraising and introduce novices to the joys and subtleties of birding. Moreover, before "ecotourism" became a word, the Panama Audubon Society and the Piñas Bay sports fishery had established the concept here in Panama. (And actually, if you want to both count birds and catch a fish bigger than you are, the Audubon Society's bird count and the start of marlin season happen at more or less the same time.)

This year's bird count will be conducted in three phases, with the Pacific Christmas Bird Count taking place on December 22; the Central Christmas Bird Count happening on December 29; and the Atlantic Christmas Bird Count scheduled for January 6 of next year. Each outing costs $5 per person.

For more information, contact the Panama Audubon Society at info@panamaaudubon.org .

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