The Mathews/Ware Neck Audubon Bird Count is planned to go ahead on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, with some modifications due to COVID-19, according to coordinator Joyce McKelvey. The event is part of the 121st annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count.

“We hope to cautiously proceed with this count,” McKelvey said in an email to participants.

The Audubon website lists recommendations on how to safely conduct the counts. “I am asking for no carpools, to keep the tried-and-true participants from previous years counts and having as many people as possible to bird and report from their own property and waterfronts,” she said.

No physical tally will take place this year. The Mathews County Visitor Center in the old Sibley’s Store has offered its assistance. A pick-up and drop-off box will be provided on their porch.

This is McKelvey’s last year coordinating the local count and for her husband, Don, to serve as compiler. “A very energetic and organized person has spoken up to take the reins,”...