Look up, what do you see? The Global Bird Count is a global event spanning four days where people spend time observing, learning, counting, and celebrating birds. This year's count takes flight from Friday, Feb. 14 to Monday, Feb. 17.

Whether you're flying alone or soaring with others, here's how to start:

First, decide where you will watch birds by checking out one of Oak City's many parks.
Next, watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once during the four day event.
Lastly, identify all the birds you see or hear and share your sightings on apps like Merlin Bird ID if you're a beginner or eBird Mobile for intermediate to pro watchers.

Bonus: If you want to bird watch in a community atmosphere, William B. Umstead State Park is hosting a watch event on Saturday, Feb. 15.