A world inspired by birds and informed by science.

Making birdwatching count

We empower 60,000 bird-enthusiasts to gather vital data, develop their skills and be part of a vibrant community.

Championing impartial science

We answer the most pressing questions about birds, through our thorough and impartial scientific research.

Sharing our bird knowledge

We communicate our knowledge and expertise to increase the value of birds and other wildlife for all.
Toby with binoculars - Rob Read
Article

BTO Equipment Donation Scheme

BTO is supporting young people across the UK by supplying them with unused or unwanted birdwatching equipment. Share your passion for birdwatching with the next generation.
Male Blackcap. Benjamin Van Doren
Publication

Feeding garden birds changes Blackcap migration patterns

New research using data from BTO's Ringing Scheme and Garden BirdWatch shows how we are shaping the natural world through actions in our own back gardens.
Gannet resting on a rock
Article

Birds and pollution — a masterclass

Increasing human activity brings more pollution into the environment. This can take many forms and can affect birds in a number of ways, as Nina O'Hanlon explains.
Curlew. Tom Streeter

Find a project

POPULAR: Breeding Waders of Wet Meadows Woodcock Survey Cuckoo Tracking Project Heronries Census Nest Record Scheme

Use our project finder to find the project that matches your level of bird expertise and the time you have available.

Start

Chiffchaff by Paul Newton

Breeding Bird Survey

BBS monitors the population changes of 117 breeding bird species across the UK thanks to the dedication of almost 3,000 volunteers who survey their randomly selected 1-km square each spring.

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Garden Birds and Other Wildlife book cover

Join BTO today

Support BTO by becoming a member, and receive a wonderful welcome gift - our handy guide to Garden Birds & Other Wildlife.

Gift memberships are also available.

Join BTO
Bird surveyors. Photograph by Jamie Murray-Grant

Develop your skills

Let us help you to improve your birding, fieldcraft and surveying skills. Browse our range of helpful guides and programme of training courses.

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More ways we work

Scottish mountain scenes. Andy Wilson

National offices

Representing BTO in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Andy Clements meeting with Westland Horticulture

BTO partnerships

The organisations we work with to achieve our charitable aims.
Fitting a Goshawk with a GPS tracking device

BTO Consulting

Bringing our expertise and advice to industry, within the UK and abroad.
autumn appeal landing page banner

Our future? It's in your hands

We are developing a youth engagement programme to discover our surveyors of the future.
Sandwich Tern. Philip Croft.
Publication

Northern Ireland Seabird Report 2020

Tern colonies around Northern Ireland had a catastrophic year. Despite this, many seabirds such as Guillemots had a good breeding season.

 Copeland Islands view. Katherine Booth Jones
Blog

What’s the score for Copeland’s symphony of seabirds?

Northern Ireland Seabird Coordinator Katherine Booth Jones describes her love for the wild coastal habitats of Northern Ireland and the charismatic seabirds that inhabit them.

 BBS volunteer. Photograph by David Tipling
News

BTO and COVID-19

BTO statement on participating in surveys during the Coronavirus pandemic (UPDATED 15.04.2021).