The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch count is in

More than 16,000 people in Devon have taken part in this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch, contributing to a nationwide survey that counted over nine million birds and revealed both encouraging trends and ongoing concerns for some species.
The annual wildlife survey, organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, saw 650,279 participants across the UK record birds in their gardens and local green spaces during a one-hour period in January.
Results show that the House Sparrow remains the most commonly spotted bird both nationally and in Devon, followed by Blue Tit and Wood Pigeon locally. Across the UK, Starling climbed to third place, with Woodpigeon and Blackbird completing the top five.
The Big Garden Birdwatch, which began in 1979, is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey and provides a valuable snapshot of how common bird species are faring.
However, conservationists say the data also highlights more troubling long-term trends. Greenfinch, which ranked 18th this year, has seen a dramatic decline, with average numbers recorded dropping by 67% since the survey began. Wider UK data suggests the species has declined by more than 65% since the mid-1990s, equating to the loss of over two million birds.
The primary cause is disease, particularly trichomonosis, which spreads more easily when birds gather in large numbers at feeders. As a result, Greenfinches are now listed on the UK Red List of conservation concern.
In response, the RSPB has issued updated guidance urging the public to make simple seasonal changes to how they feed garden birds in order to reduce the risk of disease.
The charity’s chief executive, Beccy Speight, said:
“Feeding birds is something millions of us love and value, but the science shows us that birds such as Greenfinches have been affected by the spread of disease at feeders.”
Despite the risks, the organisation says that feeding birds remains beneficial when done carefully, and is encouraging people to “feed safely” and “feed seasonally”.
New advice includes pausing the use of seed and peanut feeders between 1 May and 31 October, when disease transmission is more likely, while continuing to offer smaller amounts of alternatives such as mealworms or suet. Regular cleaning of feeders, moving their location, and changing water daily are also recommended to maintain hygiene and reduce contamination.
The RSPB is also advising people to move away from flat-surfaced feeders such as bird tables, where food can accumulate and increase the risk of disease spread.
Beccy Speight added:
“We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health. By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”
As well as adapting feeding habits, wildlife experts are encouraging people to support birds by planting species such as sunflowers, teasels and ivy, which provide natural food sources and attract insects.
This year’s survey also saw strong participation from schools, with a record 143,000 pupils taking part in Big Schools’ Birdwatch.
The RSPB says the data gathered through the survey plays a crucial role in shaping conservation efforts, helping to protect the UK’s birdlife into the future.

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