For 112 years, at year end the National Audubon Society has conducted a census of bird species and numbers, now by sampling in 1700 defined "Circles" across the nation. Volunteer counters enter the crisp outdoors, freed from holiday overindulgence and Redskin-related disappointments, joyfully oblivious to current political rancor. It's a healthy, happy, useful beginning for a new year.

But first, some ecological basics. Each living species requires habitat providing food, shelter and climate suitable to its particular needs. Changes in the makeup of bird populations reflect habitat changes, whether of natural or human origin. Birds are sensitive, mobile and migratory – excellent barometers of Earth's environmental health. Audubon's counts provide a century-long picture of what is happening to the ecology of our nation, important for conservation planning. Homo sapiens cannot survive if the "web of life" which supports his species is destroyed. On the other hand, if homo sapiens disappears, the planet will live on happily without him. It's our choice.

For several years Purple has been responsible for counting in Section 11 of Calmes Neck Circle, centered on Route 7's Shenandoah River crossing. Section 11 contains about 10,000 acres of farmland, wetland and forest in the southwest corner of Loudoun County, a diversified habitat appearing superficially similar to what it was 100 years ago. Most large farms are in open space easement or an agricultural district. Effect of limited new construction on smaller lots is partially offset by abandoned older houses.

Now some history: During those 112 years "Progress" happened. Roads were paved. Population grew. Agriculture became mechanized. Chemical pesticides were introduced. Bald Eagle population crashed around 1950, when DDT entered their food chain. Then DDT was replaced by less damaging insecticides; recently, every count has found Eagles. Mechanical corn pickers replaced hand picking. Some might decry "killing jobs," others claim "improved productivity." Harvesting machines spilled some corn. Result: a multitude of Canada Geese now winter locally. The nation's forests were cut, destroying Wild Turkey habitat. Now, the Blue Ridge forest has regrown, and Turkeys are again numerous.

The Northern Virginia winter bird list totals 69 species "regularly occurring," and 42 "occurring in small numbers". Over the years Section 11 has recorded all but a few, but the most in a single winter count is 54. 2012's count team totaled 11, ranging from professional naturalist Byron to inquisitive newcomer Carole. In between were four experienced amateurs, two sporadic enthusiasts and three tolerant spouses. Most had done previous counts together, so the ambiance at mealtime was that of a happy reunion, masking a determination to find at least 50 species. To do so we divided into three area teams.

The morning climax moment for Byron, his wife Valeria and Purple came at a large farm pond. From afar it seemed blanketed with Canada Geese. We glassed the surface. In with the Geese were several Hooded Mergansers at one end, and a few Black Ducks at the other. As we moved in for a closer look eight tiny ducks – Green Winged Teal – flushed. Alarmed, the whole pond then took off, honking. Byron enumerated the flight: 350 Canadas, eight Teal, five Mergansers, four Blacks, two Mallards, and a Great Blue Heron. No one disputed him.

At lunch our three teams combined results - 48 species. Then several members departed for family duties, leaving a cleanup team of three to scour likely coverts, eventually adding five more species: final total 53. Ten days later I still see those sun-lit Canada Geese, circling overhead under a blue January sky.

We live in a wonderful place, surrounded by natural beauty. We are its stewards, so that those who come after us – humans and a myriad of other creatures – may continue long into the future to enjoy what we have today. Christmas Bird Counts will provide information to direct conservation efforts and strengthen personal commitments to that end."