2027 Tahoe Big Year

One region. Hundreds of bird species. A whole year of discovery.

Join the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS) for the 2027 Tahoe Big Year, a community-wide celebration of Tahoe birds, from year-round species to migrants. 

Starting January 1, 2027, birders of all ages and experience levels are invited to explore the Lake Tahoe region, discover new species, and record their sightings throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned birder hoping to spot as many species as possible or just learning to identify your first few birds, there’s a place for you in the Tahoe Big Year!

More than a competition, the Tahoe Big Year is an opportunity to connect with nature, learn alongside your community, contribute to community science, and discover the incredible bird diversity right in our own backyard.

Participation is free and open to everyone! TINS members will also enjoy special Tahoe Big Year perks.

A “Big Year” is where participants search for their maximum number of species (typically birds) within a single calendar year and within a specific geographical area. A birding big year motivates people to get out birding more often, explore an area they haven’t visited before, and look for species that interest them. All of that additional effort uncovers new birding sites or nesting areas, reveals patterns of migration, and creates enthusiasm among birders. In that spirit, 

During the TBY, participating birders will find as many bird species as they can within the TBY boundaries and submit sightings of new species on this website. In January 2028, we will host a special event for TINS members where we will award first, second, and third place winners and celebrate a full year of enjoying Tahoe's birds.

Please explore the links on this site to learn more about registration, participation rules, and the TBY boundaries.