For the second year running, Birda is supporting the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch by providing a fun and easy way for you to log your BGBW bird sightings using the Birda app.
For the Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 – running from the 26th to 28th Jan – we have created a simple and intuitive birding session flow that is unique to the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. This will allow you to log your sightings in a timed session and conform to the Big Garden Birdwatch recording rules.
Once you have finished your Big Garden Birdwatch session on Birda, you will be prompted to submit your sightings via the RSPB’s website. You must submit what you see via the RSPB’s website if you want them to be included in the Big Garden Birdwatch results.
For more information about taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, please take a look at this Big Garden Birdwatch resource.
How do I start my Big Garden Birdwatch on Birda?
You can do your Big Garden Birdwatch electronically on Birda as follows:
Download the free Birda app
Click on the 'Big Garden Birdwatch' header on Birda's Home page. Note, you will only see this when you open the Birda app from the 26th to the 28th of January
Review the guidelines on how to log what you see
Log your sightings for 1 hour
Save your session
Submit your Big Garden Birdwatch session to the RSPB through their website.
How do I print out the Big Garden Birdwatch paper recording document?
If you use the Birda app, you won't need to print out the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch Guide or sheet. Simply download the free Birda app, press the "Start Now" button on the Big Garden Birdwatch Banner and begin your session. Follow this link for more information about the Big Garden Birdwatch.
If you would like to print out the paper recording document, head to the RSPB's website to download and print your pack.
Do I need to submit my recordings manually after recording them on Birda?
Yes, you must submit your records via the RSPB's website. You can use the handy summary on your Birda session and submit your results to the RSPB website: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
What birds must I record for the Big Garden Birdwatch?
Only record birds for a period of one hour between the 26 and 28 January
You must only record birds that land in your garden (e.g. that land in trees, bird feeders, or on the ground). Do not record birds that are flying over your garden.
Record the highest number of each bird species you see at any one time. For example, if you see 6 Goldfinches at one time, and then at the end of your hour, you can only see 3, your final Goldfinch total should still be 6.
Can I record birds that flew over my garden in the Big Garden Birdwatch?
No, you must only count the birds that land in the trees, bird feeders, or on the ground in your garden. Birds flying over must not be counted.
What if I don't see anything?
That's OK! Everything you log, even if it is nothing, is incredibly useful for the RSPB and must be submitted. Reporting your data will help the RSBP determine how well our garden birds are faring.
When should I log my Big Garden Birdwatch?
You can log your Big Garden Birdwatch at any time of the day between 26th-28th January 2024.
When and where do I need to send the RSPB my results?
You must send your results to the RSPB http://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch before 18th February 2024 if they are to be included.