Biodiversity in our Backyard - Perth Citizen Science Project
During Conservation Week the Biodiversity in our Backyard Project will engage citizen scientists in Perth to investigate the factors that influence the biodiversity of our backyards and local communities using common birds as an indicator
Who can take part?
Schools, community groups, youth groups, wildlife centres, conservation organisations and individuals can take part in the survey of biodiversity in backyards.
You dont need to be an expert bird-watcher to help out!
To take part in the survey, you will need to record your observations via an on-line form. To submit this form you will first need to become a member. Membership is free, providing you with your own password that allows us to keep track of repeat records you might submit.
Survey methods
There are two survey methods that you can use to collect the data, depending on how it fits in with your routine.
- Keep a list of all the bird species you observe incidentally in your garden over a 1-week period (preferred method).
- Record all the birds you observe in your garden on a single day, over a fixed 20 minute period, as early in the morning as possible.
(Include birds anywhere in your garden but do not include birds seen only in your neighbours gardens, or birds flying through that do not land.)
You may choose to complete both types of survey, and you can repeat them as often as you wish, but you must submit a new survey form each time.
Take part in the survey
Step 1: Become a member
Step 2: Decide which survey method you wish to use.
Step 3: Log in to the on-line form, select the bird list for Western Australia and familiarise yourself with the 30 target species.
Step 4: Collect your bird observations according to your chosen method.
Step 5: Log in and fill out the on-line form.