United Kingdom Bird Atlas

Posted by Rosemary Drisdelle Sep 18, 2007

The last winter bird atlas of the United Kingdom was created twenty years ago, and the most recent survey atlas on breeding birds in the United Kingdom is now fifteen years old. On Nov 1, 2007, the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) will launch a four year project to survey both winter and breeding populations of more than 250 birds in the United Kingdom. An ambitious project, Bird Atlas 2007-11 will provide information about how bird populations and distribution have changed since the last surveys were done, and where conservation efforts are needed today.

The BTO is hoping for public participation on two fronts: sponsorship is needed to help fund the atlas, and birdwatchers are needed to gather data. Individuals, companies, and organizations are all urged to donate or even sponsor a particular bird—from £2000 to £10,000 is needed for each species. £180,000 has already been pledged. Bird-watchers, meanwhile can volunteer to help survey a particular area, or just report data on the birds they see while they are out bird-watching anywhere.

To cover all of the United Kingdom, the BTO will partner with BirdWatch Ireland and the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club. Find out more about Bird Atlas 2007-11 at the British Trust for Ornithology.

Other ornithology projects that bird-watchers can take part in:

Citizen Scientists Pigeon Watch (world wide)

Cornell Celebrates Urban Birds (U.S.)

The second South African Bird Atlas project

Garden Birds in London, England

The Christmas Bird Count (the Americas)