The Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) annual Christmas Bird Count once again showcased the vital role that community volunteers and conservation efforts play in protecting the islands' unique bird populations.
Organised by the Division of Fish and Wildlife's (DFW) Wildlife Section, this year's count saw enthusiastic participation across Saipan, Rota, and Tinian, providing essential data to guide ongoing conservation strategies.
A total of 48 volunteers joined the effort: 37 on Saipan, eight on Rota, and three on Tinian.
Volunteers included community members, students from Saipan International School and Saipan Southern High School, American Memorial Park rangers, and staff from Pacific Coastal Research & Planning and the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance-Aga Team.
