October sees Aussie Backyard Bird Count

BirdLife Australia is calling on the next generation of bird lovers and their parents to get involved in this year’s Aussie Backyard Bird Count.

The nation’s peak body for birds would like to see more young Australians take part in the count than ever, as many students undertake learning from home. There is also more than $5,000 worth of prizes being given away as part of this year’s count which runs from 18­–24 October.

The Aussie Backyard Bird Count aims to engage school communities in the natural world while getting to know the birds in their local area, through participation in a simple, fun, activity.

Citizen science provides opportunities for students to connect with nature, gain scientific skills and learn about topics like habitats and adaptations.

“This year’s count will provide an opportunity to gain a more detailed picture of our native birds, as more students participate from their backyards while schooling at home during lockdown restrictions,” BirdLife Australia’s Sean Dooley said.

“We have sent out educational packs to schools to allow students to learn about birds in their virtual learning and be part of this exciting citizen science event that gathers valuable information about our native birds,” Dooley said.

Last year, more than 1,600 Aussie schools took part in the bird count, and BirdLife Australia would like to see that number even higher in 2021.

“In 2020, there was an increase in the number of participants under 15 years of age participating in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count.

“Over the past two years we have also seen less than 7 per cent of counters in the under 15 age group, so it would be great to have more of our younger Australians involved,” Mr Dooley said.

For more go to https://aussiebirdcount.org.au.