No, this isn’t a made-up tail! Aussie Bird Count Week is the real deal – an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Australia’s avian inhabitants and support crucial environmental research.

 

Birdwatching is like a rendezvous with nature – one bird at a time.

This month, you can test your bird knowledge, meet the colourful characters in your neighbourhood, and embrace the great outdoors right on your doorstep!

Read more: How to Tell if You’re a Bird Nerd

 

High up in Gibraltar (NSW) Dan Parkes stove bird

1x Currawong | Photo by Dan Parkes

What’s Aussie Backyard Bird Count Week all about?

From the 16th to 22nd of October 2023, BirdLife Australia proudly presents the tenth annual Aussie Bird Count – a celebration of our vibrant birdlife and the largest citizen science event in the country.

It’s an invitation to all Aussies to step outside and truly observe their surroundings, with a special focus on the birds in your local area.

According to Sean Dooley, BirdLife Australia’s National Public Affairs Manager, the week is more than just counting birds:

‘It’s about connecting with our environment and contributing to the knowledge that underpins our conservation efforts,’ explains Sean.

‘Australia faces numerous challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and invasive species. Paying attention to birds is where conservation begins, through popular interactive opportunities, including the popular Bird of the Year vote.’

BirdLife Australia has expressed concerns about native birds, especially species like the Eastern Rosella and the Australian Ringneck. This is where your observations come into play!

The data you collect by spotting birds in your local area helps answer critical questions about migration, habitats, and population growth. It’s like being a detective but for our feathered friends.

 

Why Birdwatching Will Improve Your Next Adventure & How To Get Started - Alice Wisse, Bird, Welcome Swallow

1x Welcome swallow | @a.l.i.c.e.l.i.z.a.b.e.t.h

Join the Flock

Spending just 20 minutes in nature can significantly benefit you and the birds. It’s an excellent excuse to immerse yourself in some greenery while also contributing to a vital cause.

The Aussie Bird Count is fun for all ages, all experiences, and can be enjoyed alone or in groups.

Here’s how to get involved:

1. Choose Your Spot

Select your favourite outdoor space, whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or even the view from your office window.

2. Count the Birds

Spend a delightful 20 minutes quietly observing and counting the birds around you. Take note of the species and the number you spot.

3. Share Your Data

Record your findings using the Aussie Bird Count app or the web form. You can participate as many times as you like, in as many places as you like during the count period.

For those unsure about bird identification, the app has a built-in bird finder tool to help you.

 

Bird 2 - Glossy Black Cockatoo, Dan Gee, @hikeandseek, wildlife, bird, birb

1x Glossy black cockatoo | @hikeandseek

Your Feathered Contribution Matters!

Insights from the count will help shape BirdLife Australia’s broader Bird Conservation Strategy, aiming to halt bird extinctions by 2032 and overall bird declines by 2050.

‘We aim to spark a passion for birdwatching that will encourage Aussie Bird Count participants to provide essential data that helps us assess the health of our local bird populations,’ says Sean.

And in even better news, every time you contribute to the count, you’ll go in the draw to win some pretty cool prizes.

Ready to spread your wings and count some birds? Sign up for the count, and help make this the biggest Aussie Bird Count yet!

 

Featured image by @liam.j.hardy