In the UK, the Big Garden Birdwatch is the largest garden wildlife survey, running since 1979. Each year, around 700,000 people take part, with the event taking place over the last weekend in January.
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In 2025, the Big Garden Birdwatch will return from the 24th to the 26th of January, and we’re hoping it will be the biggest Birdwatch yet! We at CJ Wildlife will, of course, be participating in the counting campaign and will be on the lookout for our feathered friends.
All nature lovers are invited to observe, record, and report the birds in their gardens or local parks for one hour. Through these reports, we all contribute to creating a detailed picture of the activity of our local birds.
Popular for Big Garden Birdwatch
How does the Big Garden Birdwatch work?
On the weekend of the Big Garden Birdwatch itself, taking part couldn't be simpler. You just spend an hour watching the birds in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park, and share what you've seen. If you see very few birds or none at all, that's also really useful information, so please do let us know!
All observation data will be collected and analysed after the conclusion of the campaign. A comprehensive analysis of bird species, population numbers, population trends, and observation locations will be compiled nationwide. The goal isn't to obtain precise population figures but rather to identify frequencies and trends.
The campaign paints a regional and nationwide portrait of bird life in villages and towns. Ultimately, the population data is compared with previous years, unveiling new insights into the development of numerous bird species and potentially regional variations. These results form a supportive foundation for potential bird conservation measures.
We are passionate about raising awareness of the fascinating world of birds while contributing valuable data to the study and conservation of bird diversity. Our mission extends far beyond simple counting; we stand at the forefront of promoting projects that protect and enhance bird habitats.
In close collaboration with renowned ornithological organisations and conservation experts, we have made significant progress in researching migratory behaviour, breeding habits, and population trends. These findings serve as the foundation for targeted conservation measures aimed at supporting endangered species and protecting habitats.
Our commitment goes beyond data collection; we use our platform to emphasise the importance of bird diversity. We take pride in being a driving force in the protection of our feathered friends. We aspire to foster a sustainable coexistence between humans and birdlife, working tirelessly to preserve these fascinating creatures.
CJ Wildlife is Europe's largest supporter of this valuable and important scientific participatory action
We are passionately committed to raising awareness of the fascinating world of birds and contributing valuable data for the study and conservation of bird diversity. Our mission goes far beyond simple counting - we are pioneers in promoting projects that protect and enhance bird habitats.
In close cooperation with renowned ornithological organizations and conservation experts, we have made significant progress in researching migration behavior, breeding habits, and population developments. These insights form the basis for targeted conservation measures to support endangered species and preserve habitats.
Furthermore, we use our platform to increase awareness of the importance of bird diversity. As Europe's largest supporter of bird counting, we are proud to be a driving force in the protection of our feathered friends. Our vision extends far beyond the counts - we strive for sustainable coexistence between humans and the bird world and are tirelessly committed to the preservation of these fascinating creatures.
The 5 most frequent bird species in the UK in 2024 were:
1. House Sparrow
2. Blue Tit
3. Starling
4. Woodpigeon
5. Blackbird
Big Garden Birdwatch - Results 2023
The Big Garden Birdwatch 2023, which engaged 540,000 nature lovers, revealed interesting insights into the bird population in the UK. The house sparrow maintained its dominance by securing the top spot for the 20th consecutive year, despite a significant decline of over 10 million pairs since the late 1960s. Surprisingly, house sparrow numbers have remained relatively stable over the past two decades.
The Blue Tit continued its streak, securing the second spot for the third consecutive year, while the Starling maintained its position at number three. Woodpigeon, with a remarkable surge in numbers over the last 40 years, held onto the fourth spot, showcasing its enduring prevalence in gardens.
The Blackbird retained its status as one of the most common garden birds, securing the fifth position, and the nation's favourite bird, the Robin, maintained its popularity by holding the sixth spot. The Goldfinch, despite performing well, remained at number seven, while the Great Tit retained its position at number eight.
The Magpie, which has witnessed an increase in urban areas in recent years, remained a non-mover at number nine. A notable development was the Long-tailed Tit's resurgence into the top ten, marking a significant improvement from its 15th position in the previous year's ranking. Overall, the Big Garden Birdwatch provided valuable insights into the dynamics of bird populations in the UK, highlighting both stability and shifts in their numbers over time.
Our tips for birdwatching
Bird feeders stand out as one of the easiest places to observe birds. To attract a diverse range of species, consider offering various types of food and bird feeders Utilize a feeding column for tits and sparrows, a feeding table for ground feeders like blackbirds and robins and provide fat-based products for starlings.
Tip #1
Set up a feeding station
Whether with friends or family, birdwatching is a lovely activity to enjoy together. Children, in particular, can be introduced to nature in a playful manner, helping them become familiar with different bird species. To enhance their interest, consider building bird houses or nest boxes together.
Tip #2
Get the kids involved
Distinguishing between a house sparrow and a tree sparrow can be challenging. Books or bird apps can help with clearly identifying species, and binoculars help capture details and plumage more vividly. Our Tringa binoculars series, designed for beginners, offers sharp images at an affordable price.
Tip #3
Use tools
Nest boxes and bird houses contribute to birds' well-being throughout the year, serving as nesting places in spring and summer and offering protection and shelter in winter. Even outside the breeding season, you might spot birds flying in and out of the nest box.
Tip #4
Hang up nest boxes
All nature lovers are invited to observe, record, and report the birds in their garden or local park for one hour. Through these reports, we all contribute to creating a detailed picture of the activity of our local birds.
Tip #5
Sign up to take part
Have fun watching! Every bird counts!
Give Garden Birds a Home - Preparing for Nest Box Week
Which birds frequent your outdoor space? Is there a particular feathered friend you've been eager to spot? And do you provide them with a suitable habitat?
After exploring the diverse world of birds and identifying population trends through the Big Garden Birdwatch, we are now shifting our focus to the living conditions of our garden birds. The bird count not only showcased the diversity of species but also underscored the significance of suitable habitats for birds. This brings us to the forefront of Nest Box Week, where we address the decline in natural nesting sites and explore ways to compensate for this shortage.
During Nest Box Week, we will provide tips on how to hang up nest boxes, offer insights into which bird prefers which nest box, and introduce you to various materials used for crafting these essential homes. Join us on this exciting journey as we contribute to promoting bird conservation. We are looking forward to Nest Box Week!