Pictured: 2024 Birding Cup winners, Raiders of the Lost Lark. Over 24 hours, this team spotted 136 species!

Every spring for more than two decades, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center has hosted its annual 24-hour Birding Cup fundraiser – and awarded some of the most unique trophies we’ve ever seen!

Each year, birders come together in the spirit of friendly competition to both raise money to break down barriers to outdoor access and, of course, see who can spot the most species across a variety of categories.

Log the most species recorded in a single county? You’ll take home the County Cup! Less than two years of birding experience? The Potter Mug could be yours. And the Birding Boot recognizes the team who spots the most species without the use of a motorized vehicle.

This year, 113 birders participated and collectively spotted 185 unique species!

(Oh, and we think you might enjoy chicken out all of the creative team namesfrom this year’s event!)

Want to learn more or participate in a future Birding Cup? You can subscribe to Shaver’s Creek’s “Letters from the Bird Box” newsletter here.

Or, not quite ready for the big leagues of birding? Visit Shaver’s Creek to see and learn about feathered friends in the aviary!