The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch takes place across the UK this weekend – and it’s set to be the largest survey yet.
It’s expected that more than half a million people will spend an hour between January 29 and 31 watching and recording birds from their garden, balcony or window. The results are then sent to the RSPB.
With the survey now in its 42nd year, 144 million birds have been counted to date, which gives the RSPB and RSPB Scotland an astonishing amount of insight into how our wildlife is faring.
Anne McCall, Director of RSPB Scotland, said: “I am delighted that more people than ever have signed up for this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch so far.
"Throughout the pandemic, we’ve seen just how important our connection to nature is.
"With more time spent in our homes and local areas noticing the wildlife around us, many of us have found a renewed appreciation for nature locally.
“I would encourage everyone who can to take part in Big Garden Birdwatch, not only for the phenomenal amount of data it produces, but also to take some time really focusing on the little things, to relax and to enjoy the benefits of spending time watching nature.”
- Take a closer look with the best binoculars you can buy
- How to use binoculars – and choose the best pair for you
- How to get into nature watching and appreciate the natural world
The data from the Big Garden Birdwatch helps the RSPB to create a picture of how bird populations in the UK are faring, which then informs the work done to protect those species most at risk.
Keith Morton, Senior Species Policy Officer, said: “Every submission is important, even if you don’t see a single bird, and enjoying nature is just as important as counting it.”
To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2021, watch the birds you can see from your home for an hour at some point over the three days. Only count the birds that land, not those flying over.
Record the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time – not the total you see in the hour.
To download a free Big Garden Birdwatch guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your birdwatch, RSPB shop voucher, plus advice on how to help you attract wildlife to your garden visit the Birdwatch site.
Big Garden Birdwatch 2020 results
Last January, almost half a million people counted eight million birds. The top 10 birds spotted were:
- House sparrow
- Starling
- Blue tit
- Woodpigeon
- Blackbird
- Goldfinch
- Great tit
- Robin
- Long-tailed tit
- Magpie
Big Garden Birdwatch Live
Experts from across the UK will be revealing photos, footage and facts about the birds they see, as well as answering any questions you may have, during a live event.
In addition there will be live quizzes and familiar faces throughout the weekend.
Read: Our best binoculars guide.
