Get involved in our science
BTO runs lots of different surveys to help us monitor the UK’s bird populations. You don’t need to be an expert to take part! Volunteering for a survey doesn't take up lots of time either, some surveys only need a few minutes a day or week.
If you’re a beginner without much survey experience, check out BirdTrack, Garden BirdWatch and Nesting Neighbours – they’re a good place to start while you build up skills, experience and confidence. We also offer training courses, which can help with this.
If you’ve already had some experience with surveys, check out The Wetland Bird Survey, Breeding Bird Survey and Ringing – they require more advanced identification skills.
Garden BirdWatch
Record the birds and other animals in your garden on a weekly basis.
Nesting Neighbours
Follow the fortunes of a nesting attempt in your garden or in a local green space.
Wetland Bird Survey
Identify and record the different wetland birds using a site near you.
Breeding Bird Survey
Identify and record all of the breeding birds present on a site near you.
Bird Ringing Scheme
Learn to ring and help us better understand birds’ survival and movements.
For younger people
There are also plenty of opportunities for younger people to get involved with BTO, thanks to our Youth Programme.
University societies, schools and groups
Do you work with young people? You can share our opportunities with them!
We have promotional materials available to help you spread the word about the opportunities we provide for young people.
- Contact us for more information.
Youth Membership
We are currently revising our Youth Membership and will be launching this soon.
We look forward to sharing our exciting new offer with you!
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
BTO is now an Approved Activity Provider (AAP) for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award!
This means that you can complete your volunteering part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award by taking part in our BirdTrack or Garden BirdWatch surveys.
BTO Youth Events
We run free events every year for young people, organised by BTO Youth for BTO Youth.
BTO Youth Blog
Read about how other young people experience and access nature on our BTO Youth Blog.
Get in touch
If you’d like to find out more about what we do and how to get involved ...
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