Get Involved: Aussie Bird Count vs. Birds in Backyards Surveys

As Bird Week fast approaches (Oct 14-20), here at BirdLife Australia, we’re excited to offer two awesome ways for bird lovers to help out: the Aussie Bird Count and the Birds in Backyards seasonal surveys. While both projects aim to gather important data on our feathered neighbours they each have their own unique focus and method. Here’s a quick rundown on how they differ and how you can join in on both!

Aussie Bird Count

The Aussie Bird Count is a nationwide event held every October. It’s super simple and fun—just spend 20 minutes in your backyard, local park, or any outdoor space counting the birds you see. This quick snapshot helps us track bird populations and diversity across Australia at the same time every year. A bit like a bird census.

How to Join:

1. Download the App: Get the Aussie Bird Count app or visit the website.
2. Count Birds: Spend 20 minutes observing and counting birds in your chosen spot. This year, the count is open from Oct 14 till Oct 20. 
3. Submit Data: Enter your observations through the app or website.

Birds in Backyards Surveys

Birds in Backyards surveys are ongoing and can be done anytime throughout the year - we break it up into the 4 seasons. These surveys focus on urban bird populations and their interactions with your garden environment. You not only count the birds over 20 mins, but tell us a bit of info about what your garden is like and any interesting behaviours you might see.  It helps us understand the types of garden features that are helping or hindering different birds and make recommendations around bird-friendly gardening.

How to Join:

1. Sign Up: Register a free account on Birdata (app or website).
2. Survey Your Area: Select the 'Birds in Backyards' survey, share some basic garden information and count the birds for 20 mins.
3. Submit Data: Enter your observations through the Birdata app or website. There are options for noting any breeding behaviours and aggressive interactions between birds if you see anything interesting.

Why Do Both?

By participating in both the Aussie Bird Count and Birds in Backyards surveys, you’re helping us get a fuller picture of bird populations and their habitats. The Aussie Bird Count gives us a broad snapshot of bird diversity across the country, while Birds in Backyards surveys provide detailed insights into urban birdlife and the habitat features they need. Together, these projects help us develop strategies to protect and support the birds that live where people live.

So grab your binoculars, head outside, and start counting! Your observations make a big difference.