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.

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.

Publication

Nocturnal thrushes affected by artificial light

New research from BTO has investigated the effect of artificial light at night on birds, indicating that nocturnal migrants are attracted to more brightly lit areas.

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.

Find a project

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

Start

Long-tailed Tit nest. Photograph by Elspeth Rowe

Nest Record Scheme

The Nest Record Scheme gathers vital information on the breeding success of Britain's birds by asking volunteers to find and follow the progress of individual birds' nests.

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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

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.

Kittiwake. Richard Jackson (Background image by Philip Croft)

Our Lost Seabirds

Our internationally important seabird colonies are under threat. We must act now to protect them for the future.

Blog

Migration blog (7th May - 13th May)

Birdtrack organiser Scott Mayson and media manager Paul Stancliffe reveal what species have been on the move during the last week and what we can expect over the weekend and into next week.