Chapman proposed that they identify, count and record all the birds they saw, founding what is now considered to be the world's most significant citizen-based conservation effort.

During last year's count, nearly 70 million birds were counted by nearly 58,000 volunteers, a record level of participation — with counts taking place in all 50 states, every Canadian province, parts of Central and South America, Bermuda, the West Indies and Pacific Islands.

The established method requires volunteers to count birds within an established 15-mile circle.

Grant pointed out that those involved in the count need not be members of Audubon or even well-trained birdwatchers.

"Anyone is welcome to become involved. It's actually a lot of fun and very educational," he added.

Beginning birders will be placed in a group, or field party, that includes at least one experienced bird-watcher birdwatcher.

Collected data is entered online by compilers through the Audubon Web site — www.audubon.org/bird/cbc.

Site visitors can watch results build in their area and across the Americas, as well as learn how local bird populations have changed during the past 100 years.

Contact one of the four Audubon chapters in Utah for more information: Bridgerland Audubon Society in Logan (435-753-5370), Great Salt Lake Audubon Society (801-521-2939), Red Cliffs Audubon Society in St. George or Wasatch Audubon Society in Ogden.