The Birmingham Audubon Society in 1965 inaugurated the taking of bird counts in the Birmingham area during both spring and fall migration seasons. It is planned to conduct such counts each year so that data may be obtained regarding our migratory birds similar to that now on record, through the Christmas bird counts, respecting our wintering bird populations. It is also expected that, in addition to their recreational value, such counts will prove educational in increasing the abilities and knowledge of those who participate in them. The count area, centering in Cahaba Heights (formerly known as New Merkle), was the same circle of 15 miles diameter used for the Christmas and
summer counts and included such areas as Roberts Field, Elmwood Cemetery, East Lake, Lake Purdy, Oak and Shades Mountains, and portions of the Cahaba River.