About the scheme

Every year almost 750 NRS participants monitor over 35,000 nests of different bird species in a variety of habitats. Thanks to the dedication of these volunteers, BTO and other scientists can use the Nest Record Scheme’s unparalleled long-term dataset to assess the impacts that changes in the environment, such as habitat loss and global warming, have on the productivity of wild birds.

Taking part

You can participate, whether it’s by following the progress of a few nests in your local area, erecting and monitoring boxes or becoming a highly skilled nest finder. 

NRS Code of Conduct

As with all BTO surveys, the welfare of birds comes first and we expect everyone who participates in the Nest Record Scheme to follow the NRS Code of Conduct, a set of precautions designed to ensure that monitoring a nest does not harm or put it at risk.

BTO Code of Conduct

Volunteers must also follow BTO’s Code of Conduct. This code applies to our staff, our members, and volunteers, including surveyors and participants in the Ringing and Nest Record Schemes, (hereafter referred to collectively as ‘staff and supporters’). It applies to all BTO activities, whether online (including meetings and events, telephone, letter, and email) or offline (any face-to-face interaction). We've also written some guidance for volunteer fieldworkers, which will help beginners in particular.

Want to monitor a small number of nests in your garden?

You might prefer our simple-to-use garden nest recording survey, called Nesting Neighbours.

• Find out more about Nesting Neighbours