Visually impaired bird enthusiasts nationwide are gathering this Sunday for the inaugural Blind Birder Bird-a-Thon. Designed by and for “birders” who are legally blind, the groundbreaking 24-hour marathon (12:01am-11:59 local time) is a celebration of birds, community, and accessibility by encouraging participants to identify as many birds as possible by sound (or sight as able).

Any legally blind individual in the United States of any age and at any level of birding experience, beginners included, is welcome to participate anywhere they bird. Participants can bird solo, with a team, or with a sighted guide. Backyard birding, moving from place to place with traveling teams, or following a hiking trail are all acceptable means of participation. Specific objectives include the fostering of community and embracing the joy of birding by ear, a skill that makes legally blind birders exceptionally adept.

The event is co-hosted by Birdability, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making birding and the outdoors accessible and inclusive for everyone, especially those with disabilities and other health concerns. Highlights include both an opportunity to win donated prize items from more than 20 sponsors and a compilation of results to showcase the diversity of birds found across the country. Birdability will also host a virtual post-event celebration on June 5.

Registration remains open and is free to interested parties. Please contact Martha Steele at marthajs@verizon.net with questions and requests for additional information.