The heart of BTO
The heart of BTO encompasses three key areas: birds, science, people. We work to secure a better future for birds and nature, using our science, monitoring and data to inform good environmental decisions, inspiring others with the wonder of birds and empowering them to work with us. Our priority is to make a positive impact for birds, using our strong and objective science in partnership with other organisations, members and volunteers. We strive to work sustainably and to welcome everyone.
Birds
We have been at the forefront of bird monitoring and research since 1933, working in partnership with our 50,000 skilled volunteers to understand what is happening to our bird populations and why. We share our vast body of knowledge through scientific papers, reports, articles, events, and more.
We also curate the data collected by BTO and partner organisations about the UK’s birds in interactive tools, such as BirdFacts and Bird Trends Explorer. We are the go-to organisation for information on the UK's birds.
Science
Our science is published in peer-reviewed journals, official reports and statistics, and more broadly in books and articles. 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 others, including with non-governmental and governmental organisations who then use the information to secure protection for special wildlife sites, set conservation priorities, shape policy and steer decisions over planning applications and new developments.
Our science is informing solutions to enhance bird populations through local, UK-wide and flyway-scale monitoring and research, focusing on the most important causes of biodiversity loss and the greatest opportunities for positive change.
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 and are working to grow the number and diversity of people involved in securing a better future for birds.
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.
Our values
We are evidence-led, using our science, data and expertise to make a positive difference for birds and for people.
We are inclusive, supporting, valuing and having respect for our staff and those who work with us.
We are collaborative, working in partnership with individuals and organisations to achieve our collective goals.
We are empowering, using our work to create opportunities through which individuals and communities can engage with science and the natural world for the benefit of all.
Our strategy
Read our 2023–30 strategy, its objectives and actions areas, and see how it aligns with our values.
More about us
Governance
How our organisation is governed, including details of our Trustees, committees and AGM.
Our partnerships
The organisations we work with to help secure a better future for birds and people.
Nunnery Lakes Reserve
Lakes, wet woodland, breck, and flood meadows, home to remarkable wildlife.
Contact/visit us
Details for national offices in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Cymru (Wales).
