THE WORLD’S largest garden wildlife survey returns this month, with hundreds of thousands expected to count the UK’s garden birds for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.
Nearly 600,000 people took part in 2025, recording more than nine million birds. In Dorset, almost 8,900 participants took part, with House Sparrow topping the sightings, followed by Blue Tit and Woodpigeon.
This year’s event runs from January 23–25, and Dorset residents are encouraged to spend one hour counting birds in their garden, balcony, allotment or local park, then submit their results to the RSPB. Registration for the 2026 Birdwatch is open until January 25, with free guides available by phone, text or via the RSPB website.
Robin Erithacus rubecula, on magnolia tree (Image: Andy Hay (rspb-images.com))
Since beginning in 1979, the Birdwatch has become a major citizen science project, providing vital insight into UK bird populations. More than seven million surveys have logged over 200 million birds. Last year, House Sparrow, Blue Tit and Woodpigeon held the top three UK spots, though declines were recorded for several species, including House Sparrow and Starling.
RSPB chief executive Beccy Speight urged people to take part, saying every observation helps track struggling wildlife. Participants should count only the highest number of each species seen at one time during the hour.
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