The Big Garden Birdwatch 2026!

By Alex George

The world's largest citizen science event is back for 2026, offering nature enthusiasts of all ages an opportunity to connect with local wildlife and contribute to our understanding of garden bird distribution in the UK. Taking place from January 23^rd to the 25^th, this event needs budding ecologists to play a vital role in conservation by recording birds in the nation's gardens, parks and urban spaces. Last year alone, over 590,000 people took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch and counted a staggering 9.1 million birds!

Why monitor our garden birds?

Constant changes in a modern world, including green space development, pollution and climate change, are some of the many challenges faced by bird species. As such, the better we understand the effects of these changes, the better equipped we are at finding solutions to future problems.

Since its inception in 1979, the Big Garden Birdwatch, organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), has tracked population changes in garden bird species and guided conservation efforts. In fact, conservation awareness raised by the event has indirectly led to an increase in some populations of garden birds, including Long-tailed Tits and Eurasian Blackcaps, through increases in garden feeder availability. Unfortunately, it is no secret that many garden birds in the UK, including the humble house sparrow, have continued to decline considerably over the past 50 years. As such, continued monitoring of garden bird populations has never been more critical.

By getting involved, you are not only spending a peaceful hour listening to nature’s symphony but also contributing to crucial scientific research that could help protect UK garden birds.

How can you get involved?

Step 1: Register yourself on the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch official website.

Step 2: Prepare for the day: Grab a free the digital ID guide and survey form and stock up on supplies. By registering in step 1, you will get an exclusive 20% off discount on the RSPB store to buy anything from high-energy feeds to bird tables!

Step 3: Pick your spot, this can be anywhere from your own garden to your local park.

Step 4: Spend an hour between the 23^rd and 25^th of January 2026 observing birds from a comfortable position and record your observations. Make sure you count one bird species at any one time to avoid recounting the same bird twice.

Step 5: Upload your findings to the official website. It’s as simple as that!

#BigGardenBirdwatch #RSPB