Christmas is for the birds!
By Patte Smith; courtesy photo
The chill of winter is in the air and it is a wonderful time to bundle up and get outside with family and friends and breathe in the beauty of nature. Join bird enthusiasts for the annual Audubon Douglas County Christmas Bird Count at Roxborough State Park, 4751 Roxborough Drive. The bird count will begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 31.
Anyone can participate, and all abilities are encouraged to register for a fun day of counting birds. Kids will get a kick out of trekking around to spot the various species and learn the importance they play in the natural world. Walking distance and difficulty of the trails will vary for each count area (there are about a dozen walks to join). Elevations range from approximately 5,000 feet to 8,000 feet. Many of the areas involve mostly driving, with birding stops along the way. Be sure to dress warm and bring binoculars.
If interested, call the Roxborough State Park Visitor Center between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at 303-973-3959 to sign up. The deadline to register is Tuesday, December 27. There is a $7 entrance fee per vehicle. For additional information, email roxborough@state.co.us. 
