About BTO

Arctic Tern, by Sarah Kelman / BTO

About BTO

We are a non-governmental, non-campaigning organisation focused on securing the future for birds and nature.

We use our science, monitoring and data to inform good environmental decisions and inspire others with the wonder of birds.

The heart of BTO encompasses three key areas: Birds, Science, People.

Birds

We have been at the forefront of bird monitoring and research since 1933. We share our vast body of knowledge through blogs, masterclass articles, training courses and events, and more. 

We also curate the data collected by BTO and partner organisations about the UK’s birds in interactive tools like BirdFacts and Birds on your Doorstep.


Science

Our science is regularly published in peer-reviewed journals and official reports and statistics. Because we are a non-campaigning organisation, the evidence we produce is robust and objective, and can be used by anyone wishing to understand the natural world and how it is changing.

We actively share the data we collect with other non-governmental and governmental organisations, which use the information to secure protection for special wildlife sites, set conservation priorities, shape government policy and steer decisions over planning applications and new developments.

We also develop innovative and cutting-edge technology to support environmental monitoring, and offer a bespoke range of consulting services and Data Reports


People

We harness the skills and passion of thousands of volunteers and members. With their help, we have been monitoring the UK’s birds since 1933, and have extended our coverage to include other wildlife too. 

We welcome everyone at BTO, and we have an active and growing community. Our thriving BTO Youth programme engages with the next generation of birdwatchers, scientists and policy-makers.

We run regular events and training courses to inspire and empower people to take part in our projects, supported by our staff, who are based across the UK in our national offices.

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Our values

Evidence-led

We use our science, data and expertise to make a positive difference for birds and for people.


Inclusive

We support, value and have respect for our staff and those who work with us.


Collaborative 

We work in partnership with individuals and organisations to achieve our collective goals.


Empowering

We use our work to create opportunities through which individuals and communities can engage with science and the natural world, for the benefit of all.

Redshank chick, by Sarah Kelman / BTO

Our strategy

We’ve launched our new strategy for 2023–30.

Read all about its objectives and actions areas, and how it aligns with our values on our dedicated strategy microsite.

More about us

Our history

Read about our developments and achievements since the Trust was founded in 1930.

Our history >

Our partners

Read about the organisations we work with to help secure the future for birds.

Our partners >

Governance

Read about how BTO is governed, including our Board, Trustees and Patron.

Governance >


Visit us

Nunnery Lakes nature reserve

Lakes, sandy heathland, wet woodland and flood meadows, home to a remarkable range of wildlife.

Nature reserve >

Library and Archives

Our fascinating and diverse collections span the 19th century to the modern day, and are open to everyone.

Library and Archives >

Contact us

Contact and visit details for each of our national offices, in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Cymru (Wales).

Get in touch >

Kingfisher, by Sarah Kelman / BTO

Work with us

We are an equal opportunities employer and are especially keen to encourage enquiries and applications from people who are currently under-represented in the environment movement.

Job opportunities >

Goldfinches, Edmund Fellows
Featured appeal

Surveys Appeal

Support our surveys and the future of the UK’s birds – donate today.



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