Australian Pelican – credit James Mascott
From October 16 to 22, BirdLife Australia presents the 10th annual Aussie Bird Count which has grown to become our country’s largest citizen science events. Birdwatching is an ideal way to engage with nature— one bird at a time. This month, you can test your bird knowledge, get to know the cast of colourful characters in your neighbourhood, all while enjoying the great outdoors—right on your own doorstep! The Aussie Bird Count provides a tangible opportunity for birders of all levels to make a real impact on bird conservation.
BirdLife Australia’s National Public Affairs Manager, Sean Dooley is encouraging all Australians to join the campaign. “The Aussie Bird Count is not just about counting birds,” explains Sean. “It’s also about connecting with our environment and contributing to the knowledge that underpins our conservation efforts. 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.”
Australia’s Largest Wildlife Database
The Aussie Bird Count complements the work of trained birdwatchers and ornithologists by focusing on common backyard and urban birds. It fills a crucial gap in our understanding of these everyday avian neighbours.
Taking just 20 minutes for yourself in nature can create a significant benefit for both yourself and the birds. It’s an excellent excuse to immerse yourself in nature 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.
How to participate
- Choose Your Spot: Select your favourite outdoor space, whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or even looking out your office window.
- Count the Birds: Spend 20 minutes quietly observing and counting the birds around you. Note the species and the number you spot.
- 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, but each count should be 20 minutes.
- For those unsure about bird identification, a built-in bird finder tool in the app is available to help.
The value of your contribution
As a citizen scientist, you will be contributing data that helps us monitor bird populations and protect endangered species. It’s a simple, enjoyable activity suitable for the whole family, fostering a deeper connection with the environment and revealing the incredible diversity of birdlife surrounding us in Australia.
“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.” Sean said.
To combat threats like climate change, habitat loss, fires, and invasive species that endanger nearly one in six bird species in Australia, BirdLife Australia relies on data to inform priorities. This 10th Annual Aussie Bird Count is a call for all Australians to step up and be part of the solution. 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. Celebrate the beauty of nature while contributing to the conservation of our native birdlife this October.
