Bristol’s Most Popular Birds Revealed in Big Garden Birdwatch Survey
The results of the world’s biggest garden wildlife survey have been revealed, with over nine million birds counted and 80 different species recorded. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) conducted the Big Garden Birdwatch survey in January, with over 600,000 people taking part across the country. In Bristol, over 3,400 residents participated in the survey, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive bird counts in the region.
According to the survey, the most numerous birds in Bristol are house sparrows. The wood pigeon was second highest, the blue tit was third most-seen, and the magpie fourth. Starlings, which are famed for their aerial acrobatics, remained in fifth spot in Bristol – the same as last year. However, their numbers have been declining in recent years, with an 82% decline in the breeding population in the UK between 1970 and 2022.
The RSPB’s chief executive, Beccy Speight, said: “Starlings are one of our most charismatic garden birds, but this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch results is a reason for concern. With one in six species at risk of extinction from Great Britain, we’ve done more damage to our natural world than we realise.” She added that taking small actions can help support these threatened birds, such as avoiding the use of pesticides and keeping a natural lawn.
The Big Garden Birdwatch is an annual survey that asks people around the country to count the number of birds in a chosen location during a one-hour period. This year, almost 600,000 people took part over the last weekend in January. The survey was launched in 1979 and has seen major changes in the number of sparrows declining by 54%, and the wood pigeon increasing by 1160%.
The RSPB also launched the Big Schools Birdwatch in 2002, so that children can get involved in counting the number of birds visiting their playgrounds or outdoor spaces. This year, over 100,000 children and teachers were involved in the survey – the largest number ever.
The full Bristol results in descending order of sightings are as follows:
* House sparrow
* Woodpigeon
* Blue tit
* Magpie
* Starling
* Blackbird
* Feral pigeon
* Robin
* Great tit
* Goldfinch
* Long tailed tit
* Carrion crow
* Jackdaw
* Dunnock
* Collared dove
* Coal tit
* Blackcap
* Wren
* Chaffinch
* Common gull
* Jay
* Greenfinch
* Herring_gull
* Great spotted woodpecker
* Song thrush
* Nuthatch
* Pied wagtail
* Goldcrest
* Mallard
* Black headed gull
* Rook
* Grey wagtail
* Green woodpecker
* Redwing
* Sparrowhawk
* Tree sparrow
* Moorhen
* Raven
* Grey heron
* Lesser black backed gull
* Chiffchaff
* Fieldfare
* Buzzard
* Ring necked parakeet
* Bullfinch
* Siskin
* Great black backed gull
* Stock dove
* Mistle thrush
* Hooded crow
* Barn owl
* Mute swan
* Lesser spotted woodpecker
* Kestrel
* Marsh tit
* Treecreeper
* Yellowhammer
* Red kite
* Redpoll
* Black redstart
* Brambling
* Corn bunting
* Gadwall
* Great crested grebe
* Grey partridge
* Hawfinch
* Lapwing
* Linnet
* Little owl
* Meadow pipit
* Pheasant
* Red legged partridge
* Reed bunting
* Skylark
* Tawny owl
* Teal
* Tufted duck
* Waxwing
* Wigeon
* Willow tit
The RSPB is urging people to take action to help support garden wildlife, particularly starlings, which are struggling due to habitat loss and pesticide use. By making small changes to our gardens and outdoor spaces, we can help make a difference for these amazing birds.
According to the Bristol Post, the data from the Big Garden Birdwatch survey provides valuable insights into the state of garden wildlife in the UK. The survey’s findings can help inform conservation efforts and guide individuals on how to create bird-friendly habitats.
The Bristol Post also reported that the RSPB is working to protect and restore natural habitats, including creating bird-friendly gardens and green spaces. By supporting these efforts, individuals can help make a positive impact on the environment and support the recovery of struggling bird species.
As reported by the Bristol Post, the Big Garden Birdwatch survey is an important tool for monitoring the health of garden wildlife in the UK. By taking part in the survey, individuals can contribute to a greater understanding of the challenges facing bird populations and help inform conservation efforts.
The results of the Big Garden Birdwatch survey are a reminder of the importance of taking action to protect and conserve garden wildlife. By working together, we can help make a difference for birds and other wildlife, and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature.
Source: Bristol Post
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