Overview
- Running January 23–25, the RSPB survey asks people to spend one hour counting birds from a garden, balcony or local green space and to record only those that settle before submitting results.
- RSPB leaders say the recent cold spell may increase chances of seeing migratory visitors such as fieldfares and redwings during counts.
- As of midday on January 23, submissions had logged 80,797 garden birds nationwide, with totals expected to rise through the weekend.
- The survey tracks long-term trends, with RSPB data showing house sparrow sightings down about 64% since 1979 and starlings at record-low average counts in 2025.
- For those without private gardens, local guides highlight accessible winter hotspots, including New Forest sites like Blashford Lakes and Keyhaven Marshes and Isle of Wight spots such as Newtown and Brading Marshes.