Barunga West Council is encouraging all residents looking for a fun and meaningful naturerelated activity to participate in BirdLife Australia’s Aussie Bird Count during National Bird Week from 17 to 23 October 2022.
The annual count is in its ninth year and draws on the contributions of more than 100,000 citizen scientists to create a snapshot of the state of Australia’s backyard birds and populations of different species.
The results from previous Aussie Bird Counts year-on-year have revealed a loss of many of Australia’s once common small garden birds, such as the Superb Fairy-wren, Silvereye and Willie Wagtail.
Common backyard species provides the best indication of the health of Australia’s natural environment, and more bird counters in regional areas allows experts to compare how birds are faring in the city as compared to out in the regions.
Maree Wauchope, Chief Executive, of Barunga West Council urged people to take 20 minutes to do their bit for nature.
“Think of birds as a barometer for nature,” Ms Wauchope said.
“Barunga West Council has been promoting this initiative since 2019 and we encourage everyone, from school children to our oldest citizens, to become involved.
“You just need to count how many birds you see within 20 minutes in your backyard, local park, or any other area, and record this in the Birdlife Australia app or web form. This provides a snapshot at the same time each year, allowing us to look at trends in our bird communities, and enabling you to make an important contribution to citizen science from your own home or schooling environment.
“Counting birds isn’t just a fun activity for you and the environment – spending time observing nature has been proven to provide benefits to mental health and well-being.”
Count the birds that are counting on you and register now to be part of the nation’s largest annual citizen science event. Download the Aussie Bird Count app and get involved or learn more at https://aussiebirdcount.org.au/