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.
Chaffinch and Greenfinch. Edmund Fellowes
Case Study

What we can learn from 25 years of watching gardens

Exploring the value of a complete quarter-century of weekly garden bird observations from BTO's Garden BirdWatch covering the length and breadth of the country.
House Martin at nest, Doug Welch
Publication

Survey determines drivers of House Martin breeding success

Latest research based on the House Martin Survey shows that one of the simplest ways to help House Martins is to provide artificial nesting cups. 
BTO staff and supporters at a conference
Article

BTO Conference 2020

The 2020 BTO Conference is available to view online. Catch up on a wealth of interesting talks and panels celebrating the efforts of BTO volunteers and members.
Arctic Tern Photographer Jeremy Moore

Find a project

POPULAR: BirdTrack Wetland Bird Survey Heronries Census Cuckoo Tracking Project Bird Ringing Scheme

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

Start

Robin. John Harding

Garden BirdWatch

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

Discover More

Collins BTO Guide to British Birds

Join BTO today

Support BTO by becoming a member, and receive a wonderful welcome gift - our great BTO guide to Common British Birds.

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.

Discover More

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.
BBS volunteer. Photograph by David Tipling
News

BTO and COVID-19

BTO statement on participating in surveys during the Coronavirus pandemic (UPDATED- 08.01.2021).

 BTO Surveyor. Jill Tardivel
Blog

Our volunteers: the beating heart of BTO data

Head and Principal Ecologist, David Noble, shares why volunteer-collected data are so important for an organisation like BTO. 

 Water Vole. Liz Cutting
Publication

Identifying small mammals from their high-pitched squeaks

Research published in British Wildlife by a team led by the BTO provides new possibilities for sound identification to be used as a non-invasive survey method.