Big Garden Birdwatch

Big Garden Birdwatch is observed over a three-day weekend in late January. In 2026, it falls on January 23 through January 25. This event encourages people to spend one hour counting the bird species that visit their outdoor spaces. It is recognized as the largest citizen science project of its kind, providing critical data on the health and population trends of local birdlife. By participating, individuals contribute to a massive dataset that helps environmentalists understand how different species are responding to changes in climate, habitat, and food availability.

History of Big Garden Birdwatch

The survey was established in 1979 by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) as a winter activity for its junior members. It gained significant public attention after being featured on the children’s television program Blue Peter, which resulted in more than 34,000 participants in its inaugural year. Originally intended as a one-time event, its immediate success and the value of the data collected led the organization to transform it into an annual occurrence.

In 2001, the program was expanded to include adults, which dramatically increased the volume of data generated each year. Over the decades, the project has grown into a global model for citizen science, involving hundreds of thousands of people across various regions. The long-term records created by this initiative have been instrumental in identifying the decline of once-common species, such as song thrushes and house sparrows, prompting targeted conservation efforts.

Why is Big Garden Birdwatch important?

This event provides a vital snapshot of bird populations during the coldest months when birds are most likely to visit gardens searching for food. Because the survey takes place at the same time every year, scientists can compare results across decades to track shifts in biodiversity. It serves as an early warning system for environmental issues, highlighting which species are thriving and which are struggling against modern ecological pressures.

The birdwatch also fosters a direct connection between individuals and their local environment. By observing wildlife closely for an hour, participants gain a better understanding of the ecosystem in their own backyards. This awareness often leads to more wildlife-friendly habits, such as providing consistent food sources and planting native greenery. The collective effort demonstrates how small, individual observations can combine to form a powerful tool for global conservation.

• It identifies long-term population trends for dozens of different bird species.
• The data helps researchers understand the impact of urban development on wildlife.
• It alerts conservationists to sudden drops in specific bird numbers.
• The project encourages the maintenance of healthy green spaces in residential areas.
• It provides an accessible way for people of all ages to engage in scientific research.

How to Participate in Big Garden Birdwatch

Participation requires choosing one hour during the designated weekend to sit and watch a specific outdoor area. This can be a private garden, a balcony, or a local public park. Observers should record only the birds that land within their sight, rather than those flying overhead. To ensure accuracy, participants are asked to note the highest number of each species seen at any single time during the hour to avoid counting the same bird twice.

Preparation for the event often involves setting up bird feeders or baths a few days in advance to attract more visitors. After the hour of observation is complete, the results are submitted through an official online portal or by mail. Even if no birds are spotted during the hour, that information is still considered valuable data. Participants are encouraged to use identification guides to distinguish between similar-looking species and to involve family members in the counting process.

• Select a comfortable spot with a clear view of a garden or park.
• Spend exactly sixty minutes watching and recording the birds that land.
• Use a tally sheet to keep track of different species and their numbers.
• Submit the final count through the official website to contribute to the survey.
• Clean bird feeders and birdbaths before the event to ensure a safe environment.

Big Garden Birdwatch Dates Table