The RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch is back! We need you to count the wildlife that's counting on you...
Get ready to tell us who's at home in your patch, in the world's largest wildlife survey.Bird populations are a great indicator of the health of the countryside. That's why it's so important to take part in surveys like the Big Garden Birdwatch to keep an eye on the ups and downs of the wildlife where we live.
All you need to do is spend an hour over the weekend of 25-26 January counting the birds in your garden. It's that simple! The more people involved, the more we can learn. So, grab a cuppa and together we can all help to give nature a home.
This year we would also like to know roughly how often you see other creatures (frogs, deer, hedgehogs etc) in your garden, park or local area!
For the first time, you can record your Birdwatch sightings as they happen — on your laptop, tablet or smartphone, thanks to our new 'live bird counter.'
During Big Garden Birdwatch weekend (Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 January), simply go to the Birdwatch website using your mobile device and click on the 'live counter' button. It counts down your Birdwatch hour and gives you hints, tips and trivia, while you record the birds that you see.
Of course, you still have the option to take part in one of the traditional ways — by using a pen and paper to record the birds seen then entering your results on the Birdwatch website, or by sending your results in the post.
For more information, to register and to get tips on what to look out for go to www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
Come to Rainham and get ready for 2014's Big Garden Birdwatch!
Make your way to RSPB Rainham Marshes and stock up on all your bird-related garden essentials, like bird food and feeders, or a fabulous bird ID book. Having feeders in your garden can bring in more birds, especially in winter as it can be very difficult for birds to find their natural food so they need a little extra help. However, please keep in mind that cheap bird food can be a false economy. All RSPB bird food and wild bird seed blends are carefully selected, premium quality products with no filler ingredients, meaning more of the food is eaten by the birds in your garden and there is less waste and mess.
While you’re here, you will also have the opportunity to get tips on how you can make your garden more bird friendly and you can also check our feeders in front of the visitor centre, while enjoying a cuppa and a homemade cake in our cafe. Also don’t forget to collect your Big Garden Birdwatch flyer!
Families can pick up a special garden birds sheet, and take part in some arts and crafts in the Visitor Centre while having a cuppa, and a piece of cake!