The Big Garden Birdwatch has been running for 46 years and is a continued display of the love for our wildlife, made possible by the RSPB. In the 2024 survey, 9.7 million birds were recorded with House Sparrows ruling the roost and being the most spotted species. Join the parks team who are all signed up and ready to record the birds visiting Chelmsford’s green spaces!

Surveys such as this, that give people the power to make positive change and have an impact, are of the upmost importance and its long running success proves this. The RSPB are asking for an hour of your time to sit in your garden, on your balcony or in your local park and record the birds that land in that area within the chosen hour. Results can then be submitted to the RSPB website where there is also plenty of tips and guidance for taking part.

Running from 24 to 26 January, the birdwatch survey aligns with the International Day of Education on 24 January. Education does not limit itself to the younger generation and the parallel between the birdwatch and this national day is that it’s a perfect opportunity to learn something new. Identifying different bird species is just the start, there’s 641 bird species on the British List which is a lot to learn. What is sometimes more important to learn, is how we can accommodate and nurture these lovely, winged creatures.

Creating the perfect environment to invite in birds is a crucial step not only in the birdwatch but in developing the local ecosystem. A great place to start is with providing food which is crucial at this time of year when winter chills limit the growth of trees and bushes. Buying bird feed or fat balls to treat the local bird population is great however sometimes it’s the simple methods that can be most effective. Keeping bushes and trees full and thick with leaves, branches and berries can attract insects for birds to feed on.

Water is of equal importance and is not only for drinking but also bathing. A shallow container or tray can be as useful and effective as a bird bath so don’t be afraid to try different containers!

Unfortunately, we have lost 38 million birds from the skies in the last 60 years in the UK, so optimising your green space to invite and nurture local wildlife is key and even small changes can have a positive impact. What could be better than waking up to bird song and a new feathered friend visiting your green space and thriving.

Join the thousands of passionate nature lovers this January and take part in RSPB’S Big Garden Birdwatch to help be part of something that will create valuable insight. Keep your eyes peeled and get counting!

Find out more or sign up to the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch

If you have a camera or phone handy while you’re busy birdwatching then why not snap a picture and enter our Space To Thrive, bird themed photo competition that’s open to Chelmsford residents to showcase their snaps! You can find out more on the competition page and we can’t wait to see what you spot.

Photo Competition: https://loveyourchelmsford.co.uk/photo-competition/