In a concerted effort to foster inclusivity and encourage participation among the Latino community, Tracy Aviary is set to host a bilingual Christmas Bird Count event at its Pia Okwai location in South Salt Lake. Scheduled for December 15, this initiative aims to blend the joys of birdwatching with cultural outreach, offering a welcoming environment for families and individuals who may have previously felt disconnected from such outdoor activities. The Christmas Bird Count, a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century, is an annual event where volunteers gather to count birds in a specific area, contributing valuable data to conservation efforts. This year, Tracy Aviary aims to enhance the experience by providing bilingual resources and support, making it accessible for Spanish-speaking individuals. “We want to break down barriers and create a space where everyone can enjoy nature and contribute to science, regardless of their language,” said Dr. Jennifer L. Baird, the executive director of Tracy Aviary. The event will feature guided birdwatching walks led by experienced naturalists fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring participants can fully engage with the activity. Attendees will learn to identify various bird species, understand their habitats, and appreciate their roles in the ecosystem. Educational materials, including pamphlets and identification guides, will be available in both languages, providing essential information to participants. In addition to the bird counts, the event will incorporate cultural elements to celebrate the rich heritage of the Latino community. Local artists and musicians will showcase their talents, and traditional foods will be available, creating a festive atmosphere that encourages families to come out and enjoy the day together. “This is not just about counting birds; it’s about building community and sharing our love for nature,” said Baird. The inclusion of a bilingual component is part of a larger outreach strategy by Tracy Aviary, which has historically sought to engage diverse populations in conservation efforts. Over recent years, the organization has recognized the importance of representation in environmental activities and aims to dismantle the perception that such pursuits are exclusive to certain groups. “We have seen a growing interest among the Latino community in outdoor activities, and we want to ensure that they feel welcomed and included in these experiences,” Baird added. Tracy Aviary's outreach efforts align with broader environmental justice initiatives that emphasize equal access to nature for all communities. Studies have shown that minority groups often have less access to green spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities, leading to disparities in health and well-being. By providing bilingual resources and culturally relevant programming, Tracy Aviary hopes to address these inequalities and create a more inclusive environment for all to enjoy. The Christmas Bird Count is not only a fun and educational event but also a crucial part of citizen science, where volunteer data collection helps ornithologists and conservationists track bird populations and migration patterns. The information gathered during these counts contributes significantly to the understanding of avian species' health and the overall state of ecosystems. Participants are encouraged to register in advance to ensure adequate materials and resources are available. Families, individuals, and groups are all welcome to join, regardless of their level of experience in birdwatching. Tracy Aviary is committed to making this event an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone involved. As the event approaches, Tracy Aviary continues to promote the initiative through local community centers, schools, and social media platforms, targeting outreach specifically toward Latino families. By leveraging community networks and partnerships, the organization hopes to draw a diverse crowd eager to participate in this unique fusion of cultural celebration and environmental stewardship. As the holiday season draws near, the bilingual Christmas Bird Count at Tracy Aviary stands as a beacon of hope for greater community engagement in conservation. It illustrates how nature can unite people from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility for the environment. The event not only celebrates the beauty of birds but also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in preserving our natural world. For more information on the event, including registration details, interested individuals can visit Tracy Aviary’s official website or contact the organization directly. With the promise of a vibrant day filled with learning, community bonding, and immersion in nature, the bilingual Christmas Bird Count is poised to be a memorable experience for all participants, reinforcing the notion that nature truly belongs to everyone, regardless of their language or background.