What is a BIG YEAR?

A Big Year is an informal (not in our case!) competition between fellow birders in the United States.  This tradition began in 1934, and has continued up until the present.  Originally in 1939, the best record was achieved by Guy Emerson who saw 497 species. In 1952, Bob Smart crushed Emerson's record and saw 510 species. Currently, the highest record is held by Neil Hayward, who saw an astonishing 747 species.

Traditionally, the system is based on the good ole' Honor System.  No additional points are given for male and female species, species can be counted by simply hearing and identifying the bird's call without ever seeing the bird.  NOT IN OUR CASE!

We have adapted the rules and added high stakes to Genny vs. Hallie's Big Year Challenge!

May the best woman win!

Hats off, Let the games begin!

Genny vs. Hallie

BIG YEAR BATTLE

THE RULES:

Rule 1: The battle begins 8/1/16 and ends 8/1/17

Rule 2: Photos must be taken within the Continental United States

Rule 3: Photos must be dated and taken by Genny/Hallie, or with said person in the photo

Rule 4: All birds need to be identified to count.

Rule 5: No bluffing is admissible, when asked the official up to date bird count points one must answer honestly. 

POINTS SYSTEM:

.5 points for birds not in the wild (ex. a zoo, a pet, an aviary)

1 point for both male and female species found not the the wild

1 point for identifying the species

1.5 points for taking photos of both the male and female of the same species

THE STAKES:

Whoever loses the Big Year Battle has to pay for airfare to either Florida or Maryland, depending on the winner’s choice of state.

Genny's Edge:

Genny has plans to travel to different states in North America.

Hallie's Edge:

Many species of birds travel through Florida during migration.

           Let the Games Begin!