Join the Bird-Count Extravaganza in Berlin's Backyard!
Citizens of Berlin urged to participate in bird counting - from Snowy Owl to Sparrow - Berlin residents advocated for a bird census
Ready to be a feathered friend tracker? Berlin, famed for its peregrine falcons and zesty blue kingfishers, is brimming with avian activity, and we need your help to keep tabs on our winged neighbors! The Nature Conservation Union Germany (NABU) and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association LBV have joined forces to count birds citywide, and it's time for Berliners to roll up their sleeves and join the fun. From May 9 to 11, immerse yourself in the adrenaline-pumping "Hour of Garden Birds" event!
If you're curious where to begin your avian expedition, fear not! NABU Berlin recommends keeping an eye out for the vibrant goldfinches—those zippy chaps with their red faces and chic yellow wing stripes, often referred to as the common chaffinch. The city center's prime choice, while the agile redstart with its lively red tail showcasing its dance moves can be found lurking in the outskirts. Don't forget to add household birds like sparrows and pigeons to your list too!
Last year, an astounding 36,000 birds were accounted for in Berlin! Intrigued? Learn how to become a citizen scientist right here! To play detective for our feathered friends, station yourself at a peaceful spot in your garden, park, or even at home by a window. During the hour, record your highest count of each species spotted. Submit your findings online, via app, or by snail mail, helping supply insights into current developments in Berlin's bird world. This valuable data will complement official population trends. In 2020, 1980 keen-eyed volunteers contributed, collectively spotting those 36,000 birds.
What's more, Berlin's NABU groups extend an open invitation to participate in the counting weekend. On May 11 at 9:00 AM, the Lichtenberg district group will rally in the Wartenberger field area. If you're a proud parent with bird-loving kiddos, save the date for May 10 at 2:00 PM when we'll be exploring the Rummelsburger Bucht.
Think Berlin's avian scene is practically petite? Reserve a spot in the Stangenhagener Polder, just 20 kilometers south of the city, and prepare to be dazzled by common cranes, ospreys, black kites, western marsh harriers, white-tailed eagles, Eurasian hobbies, red-backed shrikes, red kites, and golden orientoles! [1]
- Berlin
- Nature Conservation Union Germany
- Bavarian Nature Conservation Association
- Birds
- Bird species
- Metropolitan area
- Pigeons
- Weekend
- Bird Count
Sources:
[1] Wild Bird Trust (n.d.). Top birding sites in Germany. Retrieved February 20, 2023, from https://www.wildbirdtrust.com/top-birding-sites-in-germany/
Participating in Berlin's bird count is a unique opportunity to contribute to the community policy regarding local avian lifestyle. Vocational training in citizen science could be beneficial for those interested, as it involves home-and-garden-related activities like observing and recording bird species.
