The Big Sit at Retzer Nature Center

On Saturday, October 11 Goss Bird Club will once again host The Big Sit at Retzer Nature Center. The Big Sit is an annual fall event in which participants from around the world spend a 24-hour period counting as many species as they can see from a single location.

Often called a “tailgate party for birders”, the rules are simple: find a good spot for bird watching, set up your 17' diameter circle, and sit. That’s it! Participants are allowed to come and go from the circle - especially to bring food back into the circle! - but birds only count if seen or heard from inside the circle.

Our Big Sit will take place on the accessible patio area west of the main nature center building. Early risers can arrive before dawn to listen for owls and other nocturnal species such as American Woodcock. A flurry of activity will take place around sunrise as robins, bluebirds and waxwings scour for breakfast. Throughout the morning the tally quickly climbs as we see new birds pass near the circle often. Late morning is excellent for hawks and vultures who take advantage of the mid-day thermals. Activity slows down around lunch time, and most birders end their day by 3:00 pm.

And as much as The Big Sit is about birds, a full day of birding provides ample time for socialization with birders in our group and people visiting the nature center. We hope to see you there! If by chance there is nasty weather, we may use Sunday 10/12 as a rain date, so keep your eyes out for updates.

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