“Consider the birds of the air…”
The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch
Friday 23 – Sunday 25 January
This is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey!
Last year, nearly 600,000 people took part and over nine million birds were counted. We’ve lost a staggering 38 million birds from UK skies in the last 60 years. With birds facing so many challenges, it’s more important than ever to get involved in the Birdwatch. To take part, spend one hour counting the birds you see in one location – your garden, balcony or a local park. Submit your findings to the RSPB. You can download a free guide and ID chart to help you identify the birds you spot on the RSPB website. Find out more at: rspb.org.uk/whatshappening/big-garden-birdwatch
If you feed the birds, do follow the RSPB’s tips:
- It’s very important to keep bird feeders and birdbaths clean to stop a build-up of bacteria and viruses that can spread diseases and infections among garden birds
- Change the water in your birdbath daily and give it a thorough clean every week
- Wear gloves and use warm soapy water
- Scrub feeders inside and out using a dedicated strong, long bristled brush. Do this outside in a bucket, not in your kitchen sink
- Use a mild, non-toxic disinfectant
- Make sure the feeder is thoroughly dry before refilling it with food