How to Take Part in the RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch in West Wales
Ever thought about joining in with the RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch but not sure what’s involved? Don’t worry—it’s super easy, and we’ve got all the info you need to get started! It’s a great excuse to slow down, grab a cuppa, and spend an hour spotting birds with the kids. Whether you’ve got a garden, a balcony, or just a window with a view, you can take part—and it’s all for a brilliant cause too!
What is the RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch
The RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey, and it’s been running since 1979. What started as a winter activity for children has grown into a massive annual event that helps the RSPB monitor bird populations and trends. All it takes is one hour of birdwatching and recording what you see. Even if you spot no birds at all, that information is still incredibly useful! The survey offers a valuable snapshot of how our feathered friends are doing and plays a crucial role in protecting them for the future.
This year’s Birdwatch takes place from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th January 2025. You can choose any hour that suits you—morning, afternoon, or even during a rainy spell. After all, birds are often more active when the weather turns a bit dreary!
How to Take Part in the RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch in West Wales
Taking part is as easy as pie (and speaking of pie, why not enjoy a slice while you watch?). Simply decide where you’ll spend your hour—your garden, a park, or even from your window. Make yourself comfy with a warm drink, maybe some hot chocolate, and have a notepad or the RSPB’s free guide handy to jot down what you see. If you don’t have a garden, don’t worry—local parks or even viewing birds from a balcony works just as well.
Once you’ve chosen your spot, watch for birds landing in your patch. Only record the birds that land in your area—birds flying overhead or landing in a neighbour’s garden don’t count. Record the maximum number of each species you see at one time. For example, if you spot three blue tits together, then later see two more, your total is three—not five. This method avoids double-counting. After your hour, submit your results on the RSPB website by 23rd February or post your form by 18th February if you prefer. Every single count matters, even if your hour is quiet.
Preparing for Your Birdwatch
Getting ready for the Birdwatch is part of the fun! Brush up on your bird identification skills beforehand using the RSPB’s handy online tool, which guides you through identifying the birds you’re likely to see. Familiarising yourself with common species like house sparrows, robins, and blue tits will make your Birdwatch even more enjoyable.
If you’ve got outdoor space, you can help attract birds by putting out food, water, and providing shelter. High-energy foods like sunflower hearts, suet balls, and peanuts are perfect for winter. A birdbath with fresh water is a great addition, and remember to keep everything clean to prevent the spread of diseases.
How to Identify which Bird is What
Don’t worry if you are not up on identifying which bird is what, the RSPB have a handy tool on their website that by answering a few questions it can help you identifier which one you have seen from a list of 408 species of birds found in the UK, including some rare overseas visitors. Click Here to access the Tool
Why Your Count Matters
Last year, over 600,000 people took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, counting an impressive 9.7 million birds. House sparrows topped the list again, but their numbers have declined by 60% since the survey began. These figures highlight the importance of the Birdwatch. By taking part, you’re helping the RSPB track changes and understand the challenges birds face. It’s a powerful way to make a difference from the comfort of your own home.
Make It a Family Affair
The Birdwatch is a fantastic way to connect with nature and involve the whole family. Kids love spotting birds and learning to identify different species. Turn it into a mini adventure with some snacks, binoculars, and maybe even a bird-themed game to keep little ones entertained. Share your results on social media using #BigGardenBirdwatch to join the community of bird enthusiasts taking part.
Don’t Forget to Actually Sign Up
Before you get started, sign up on the RSPB website to pledge your participation. By signing up early, you can request a free guide be posted to your home or a digital version you can printed off. If you choose the digital guide, it will be conveniently emailed to you, saving costs and helping the RSPB spend more on protecting wildlife. For those who prefer, a printed copy is also available.
Feeling Inspired?
If you love taking part in the Birdwatch, why not consider becoming an RSPB member? Membership starts from just £5 a month for adults, with family and youth memberships also available. As a member, you’ll enjoy unlimited access to over 170 nature reserves across the UK, a welcome pack, and regular issues of The RSPB Magazine, filled with inspiring stories and tips to help wildlife thrive. Your membership directly supports conservation efforts, ensuring birds and their habitats are protected for generations to come.
In West Wales, we’re lucky to have several stunning RSPB reserves to explore:
- Cwm Clydach in Swansea
- Ramsey Island in Pembrokeshire
- Gwenffrwd-Dinas in Carmarthenshire
- Ynys-hir in Ceredigion
Even if you’re travelling, your membership grants you access to reserves all over the UK.
A Snapshot of Last Year’s Results
In 2024, the most spotted birds included house sparrows, blue tits, and starlings. However, the decline in species like the song thrush, which is down 85% since 1979, reminds us how vital it is to keep counting. Each Birdwatch provides crucial data, helping the RSPB understand how different factors, such as climate change and urbanisation, impact bird populations.
Ready to Take Part?
Mark your calendars for 24th to 26th January 2025 and get ready for an hour of birdwatching fun! Whether you’re an experienced birdwatcher or a complete beginner, the RSPB BIG Garden Birdwatch is a fantastic way to connect with nature, support conservation, and enjoy quality time with the family. So, grab your cuppa, settle in, and let’s see who visits your patch this year!