Taking Part in the "Hour of Garden Birds": Joining Forces with Nature Enthusiasts!
Moment of Avian Presence - "Bird Counting in the Garden Hour"
Curious about how many sparrows, robins, finches, or blue tits are fluttering around your garden or local park? Well, the Nature Conservation Union Germany (NABU) and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association LBV are eager to find out this year, and they're counting on your help! From May 9 to 11, they're inviting the populace to join their participatory action dubbed "Hour of Garden Birds." That's right, folks, it's time to spot some feathered friends!
According to the NABU, the focus of this action lies on common and widespread bird species that can easily be observed in gardens, on balconies, or parks. With a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of the "Bird of the Year" 2025, the redstart, which has emerged from its winter quarters and is now scouring gardens for insects, as explained by LBV biologist Angelika Nelson.
So, how can you lend a hand? Just spend an hour during the designated period outside your front door, keeping an eye out for our avian pals. Note down the highest number of each species you spot simultaneously, then report your findings via the internet, an app, or by good old-fashioned mail. With your help, the nature conservation associations hope to glean insights into the current state of our feathered friends that complement official population trends.
Here's an insider tip: Prepare your garden ahead of time by setting up bird feeders, bird baths, and native plants that attract birds. This will increase your chances of a bustling birdwatching session!
Got this far? Here's your birds-eye view on partaking in the "Hour of Garden Birds" event:
- Register and Obtain Materials: Visit the official NABU and LBV websites to learn about registration and materials.
- Prepare Your Garden: Make your outdoor space bird-friendly with feeders, baths, and native plants.
- Choose the Right Time: Keep an eye on the official websites for the exact counting dates and times.
- Count the Birds: Observe and tally your garden's avian populace, focusing on common species like blue tits, finches, robins, and sparrows.
- Report Your Findings: After the observation hour, submit your counts to NABU or LBV using an online form, email, or other means provided.
- Contribute to Conservation: Your data supports understanding bird populations and investigating conservation measures, while also raising awareness about the importance of gardens for birds.
With eager eyes and keen senses, participate in the "Hour of Garden Birds" and join hands with fellow nature enthusiasts to create a bird-friendly world!
In the spirit of the "Hour of Garden Birds" event, you can contribute to environmental protection by registering and spending an hour observing and recording common bird species in your home-and-garden, such as robins, finches, sparrows, or blue tits. By following this, you're not only helping the Nature Conservation Union Germany (NABU) and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association LBV to understand bird populations but also aiding in investigating conservation measures and raising awareness about the importance of a bird-friendly lifestyle for a healthier environment.
