Every year thousands of people across the UK take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. It’s a brilliant way to connect with nature, enjoy the wildlife on your doorstep and help scientists understand how our garden birds are faring.
Last year, over 590,000 people took part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2025, counting a whopping 9.1 million birds! House Sparrows took the top spot, but counts of these chirpy birds are down by 60% compared to the first Birdwatch in 1979. In fact, we’ve lost 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. So, how can you help?
When is the Big Garden Birdwatch in 2026?
The Big Garden Birdwatch 2026 will take place across the weekend of Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th January 2025.
During this period, all you need to do is pick one hour to sit quietly in your garden, on your balcony or even in your local park and count the birds you see.
How do I attract birds?
With birds facing big challenges, every birdwatch matters! It’s as simple as topping up your bird table and filling your bird bath to the brim. Make sure to remove old food and clean your feeders regularly, as diseases can be a massive issue for certain species. Goldfinch and chaffinch numbers have dropped dramatically due to a disease that spreads around contaminated feeders and water bowls. Check here for guidance on how to clean your feeders and keep your garden birds safe.
How do I take part?
It couldn’t be simpler! Pick an hour between the 23rd – 25th of January, make yourself a cuppa and watch.
- Sit quietly and watch: Count the highest number of each species you see at any one time – that’s important for the RSPB’s data.
- Submit your results: Go online and share what you saw with the RSPB after your count.
Even if you don’t spot any birds, your results still help – zero counts matter too!
You don’t need to be an RSPB member to take part, and it’s completely free. When you sign up, you receive a handy guide to help with identifying the birds, as well as lots of useful tips on how to help our birds all year round.
Do you want to know how to help other garden wildlife this winter? Why not read our most recent blog, where we outline how to help not only common garden birds, but other creatures like frogs, newts and hedgehogs, click here to find out more.