The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch is back for 2025, inviting nature lovers across the UK to unite in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. Mark your calendar for 24th, 25th, and 26th January and help make a real difference for our beloved garden birds. Every count matters.
Why It’s Important
Now in its 46th year, the Big Garden Birdwatch helps provide a crucial snapshot of how garden birds are faring across Northern Ireland. With the escalating challenges posed by the nature and climate emergency, the data collected through this citizen science initiative is more vital than ever.
In 2024, over 600,000 people joined the effort, counting more than 9.7 million birds nationwide. Impressively, over 13,000 participants were from Northern Ireland, showcasing the community’s commitment to protecting local wildlife. Since the Birdwatch began in 1979, participants have collectively spent more than 12.1 million hours observing and recording over 195 million birds.
How You Can Get Involved
Taking part is simple and rewarding. Neal Warnock, Conservation Manager for RSPB NI, emphasises the value of this event:
“The Big Garden Birdwatch is not only a fantastic way to connect with nature, but it makes a real impact. By taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, you're contributing to vital research that helps us monitor bird populations and identify trends. All you need to do is register online and then choose an hour over the weekend, grab a pen and paper, and start watching the birds that land on your balcony, in your garden or in your local green space and submit your sightings online.”
To participate, you can register now and receive a free digital Big Garden Birdwatch guide. This handy resource includes a bird identification chart, tips for making the most of your Birdwatch, and advice on attracting wildlife to your garden.
How to Register
Registering for the Big Garden Birdwatch is easy. Simply text BIRD to 82727, or visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch to access your guide and get started. Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or a first-time participant, your observations can help shape the future of conservation in Northern Ireland and beyond.
A Shared Mission
Together, we can make a difference. Join the hundreds of thousands of people across the UK who will be watching, counting, and cherishing the beauty of our garden birds this January. Your hour spent observing isn’t just a gift to nature—it’s a step toward a better, more informed future for wildlife.
Let’s make this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch the biggest yet!
c.curran