Welcome to the British Trust for Ornithology | BTO

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.

Publication

Citizen science shapes monitoring approaches for Tawny Owl

Data from thousands of volunteers reveal predictors of tawny owl residency and shape optimal survey methods for future research.

Lesser Black-backed Gull - Edmund Fellowes

Publication

Tracking Lesser Black-backed Gull behaviour around windfarms

GPS technology data reveals a detailed picture which may be used to inform future collision risk assessments when new offshore developments are proposed.

News

PJ the Cuckoo: his legacy lives on

Record-breaking Cuckoo PJ has died in his summer territory in King's Forest, but data from his tag continues to inform our research.

Find a project

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

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Garden BirdWatch

Help with research into garden wildlife by joining our Garden BirdWatch community

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Join BTO today

Discover the curiosities of birds and their world by becoming a BTO Member today.

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

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.

Urban Appeal

Donate today to support BTO's urban research.

Article

The BB/BTO Best Bird Book of the Year - 2021

British Birds and the British Trust for Ornithology are pleased to announce the winner of the award for Best Bird Book of the Year 2021.

Blog

Migration blog review of 2021

Whilst 2021 was a stop start year for many of us the same could be said for migrating birds, but for very different reasons.