Join Us for the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2025

Birdwatching enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike, it's time to get ready for the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2025! The RSPB invites you to join thousands of others across the UK in counting garden birds and contributing valuable data to help protect our feathered friends.

Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner looking to connect with nature, the Big Garden Birdwatch is an easy and fun way to get involved in conservation efforts while spending time outdoors. Here’s everything you need to know to take part and make the most of this exciting event!

What is the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch?

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is a garden wildlife survey, where participants count the number of birds in their gardens or local green spaces for one hour. The data collected helps the RSPB track bird populations across the UK and assess the health of different species. It’s a fantastic way to contribute to bird conservation efforts and learn more about the birds that share our gardens.

When is the Big Garden Birdwatch 2025?

This year, the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch will take place over the weekend of January 24th–297th, 2025. You can participate on any of these days, so simply choose a time that works best for you!

How to Take Part

1. Pick Your Time: Set aside one hour during the weekend to count the birds in your garden or local area.
2. Choose Your Spot: Find a comfortable place where you can easily see the birds. It’s best to sit quietly in a spot with a good view of trees, bushes, or bird feeders.
3. Count the Birds: Record the highest number of each species you see at any one time during the hour. Don’t worry if the birds are flying in and out – just note the maximum number you spot at once!
4. Submit Your Results: After your birdwatch, head over to the RSPB website to submit your findings. It’s as simple as filling in a short online form. Your results will directly contribute to important bird research.

Why Take Part?

• Help Bird Conservation: The data gathered from the Big Garden Birdwatch is vital for understanding bird populations across the UK. It helps the RSPB identify trends in bird numbers and conservation needs.
• Learn More About Birds: Whether you’re a birdwatching beginner or an experienced birder, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the species in your area. You might even spot some new visitors to your garden!
• Enjoy Time Outdoors: The Birdwatch encourages you to spend some time outside, observing nature. It’s a great family activity or a peaceful solo endeavor to enjoy the sights and sounds of local wildlife.
• Feel Part of a Community: By joining the Big Garden Birdwatch, you’ll be part of a nationwide community of birdwatchers, all contributing to the health and wellbeing of UK birdlife.

Top Birds to Look Out For

While the birds you see will depend on where you live, here are some common species that often make an appearance during the Birdwatch weekend:

• House Sparrows: These friendly, social birds love to gather in gardens and are one of the most frequently spotted species.
• Blue Tits: With their colourful plumage and energetic behaviour, Blue Tits are a delight to watch.
• Robins: Often associated with winter, Robins are a popular garden visitor, especially during the colder months.
• Wood Pigeons: These larger birds tend to frequent gardens and can often be seen perched in trees or feeding on the ground.
• Blackbirds: Known for their distinctive black feathers and yellow beaks, Blackbirds are often seen hopping around lawns in search of food.

Preparing Your Garden for Birdwatching

To attract more birds to your garden and ensure your Birdwatch experience is a success, here are a few simple tips:

• Provide Food & Water: Set up bird feeders with a mix of seeds, nuts, and suet to attract different species. A bird bath or shallow dish of water will also be appreciated by the birds.
• Create Safe Hiding Spots: Birds love gardens with plenty of shrubs, trees, and other natural cover to hide from predators. Consider adding plants that offer shelter or nesting opportunities.
• Keep It Quiet: Birds are often skittish, so avoid making loud noises that could scare them off. Try to keep still and quiet during your hour of birdwatching.
• Be Patient: Birds may take a little while to appear, so stay patient and enjoy the calming atmosphere of being outside in nature.

Get Involved in the 2025 Big Garden Birdwatch!

So, are you ready to take part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2025? It’s an easy, enjoyable, and impactful way to help protect our birds while learning more about the wonderful wildlife that calls our gardens home. Mark your calendars, gather your birdwatching gear, and get ready to contribute to one of the UK’s biggest citizen science events of the year!