Birdwatchers across New Jersey have mobilized for the high-stakes 24-hour species scramble at the 43rd Annual World Series of Birding set for May 9. Starting at midnight, hundreds of dedicated birders will race against the clock to identify the most bird species in just one day, from nocturnal owl calls to sunrise choruses and nonstop bird spotting through the night and following daylight hours.
The event, timed precisely with the peak of spring migration, attracts fierce competition and passionate conservationists alike, with more than 85 teams registered as of now. Birders will be on high alert, tracking elusive night singers such as the Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Barn Owl, and Eastern Screech Owl across the dark landscapes of the state, including hotspots like Cape May County.
The overnight hours reveal the hidden side of birding: most songbirds migrate by night to avoid predators, giving expert “birders by ear” a rare chance to pick out species by faint calls and chip notes imperceptible to casual observers. Teensy night sounds from species like the Eastern Whip-poor-will and rare rails such as the Black Rail add to the species tally well before dawn.
As dawn breaks, teams hear the distinctive calls of the Chuck-will’s-widow, signaling the beginning of the morning chorus, a critical window during which many species become highly vocal. Most teams report identifying over half their species by 9:00 a.m. ET, capitalizing on the heightened activity in marshes, bays, and skies, where egrets, herons, gulls, terns, and raptors create ever-changing bird scenes to scan and count.
The grueling 24-hour event pushes teams to their limits, but rest breaks during the afternoon lull allow for brief downtime before the next active phase begins. Despite the toughness, many birders embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, knowing every sighting counts toward both bragging rights and conservation fundraising.
Since its start, the World Series of Birding has not only been an exhilarating competition but also New Jersey Audubon’s largest annual fundraiser, fueling conservation initiatives. Participating teams also raise funds for numerous other environmental organizations, a critical lifeline for wildlife protection projects nationwide.
Event organizers have expanded options for participants, making it possible to join locally by birding in home counties, participating in carbon-free categories, or taking part in the “Big Stay” approach that focuses on one key location instead of traveling statewide. New Jersey Audubon Ambassador teams compete without entry fees, emphasizing fundraising and fun over relentless competition.
This signature 24-hour birding blitz in New Jersey captures the imagination of birders from across the country, drawing national attention to the thrill of birding combined with urgent conservation messaging. As the clock ticks on May 9, all eyes and ears will be tuned to the subtle calls and vibrant flutters that make the World Series of Birding a unique and compelling challenge for every level of birder.
For bird lovers in Alabama and beyond, this event offers a reminder of the diversity and wonder of bird migration happening right now, inspiring more to get outside and support vital conservation efforts. To follow the action or support teams fundraising for conservation, visit www.njaudubon.org.
