The RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch

THE RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRD WATCH

What is it? How do I get involved?

The Big Garden Birdwatch takes place at the end of January each year (This year it is between 26th and 28th January 2024).

It takes place over three days, so if you’re busy over the weekend or perhaps the weather’s bad, you have the option of a third day!

The Big Garden Birdwatch enables scientists to compare year-on-year data and create a ‘snapshot’ of bird numbers across the UK. It also helps to spot problems with the bird population and helps the RSPB take early action to put things right.

The popularity of the Birdwatch has grown year-on-year and now over 40 years later it is the world’s largest wildlife survey, with around half a million of us regularly taking part.

Joining in with the Big Garden Birdwatch is simple and enjoyable – and a great excuse to watch your garden birds.

Here’s how to get involved…

First you will need to pop into store to collect a counting sheet. These will be readily available throughout January. If you can’t make it in – don’t worry, they are also available to download and print on the RSPB website.
Choose a good place to watch from for an hour between the 26th and 28th January 2024. This may be outside if the weather is good or it can simply be done from the comfort of your home.
If you haven’t got a garden that’s no problem. Just pop down to your local park or green space and join in there.
Relax and watch the birds for an hour.
Count the maximum number of each species you see at any one time. For example, if you see a group of three house sparrows together and later another two, and after that another one, the number to submit is three. That way, it’s less likely you’ll double-count the same birds.
Submit your results either by posting the survey to “Freepost, RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH’’ or enter your results on the RSPB website.