The Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) is a nationwide survey of waders, wildfowl and birds associated with water. The survey involves counting waterbirds once a month (mainly between September and March) to assess changes in wintering populations. The survey is very accessible to beginners or those new to bird identification and provides an ideal platform to get started on your birding journey.

Across Aberdeenshire we are lucky to have several important sites for waterbirds including the Ythan Estuary, St Cyrus and Loch of Strathbeg. There are also many smaller waterbodies that provide habitat for waterbirds in the wider landscape. Each month a network of volunteers covers over 50 sites counting waterbirds to provide data for the region. We need your help to cover more sites for waterbirds across the northeast!

This online workshop will provide an overview of the survey, what sites are available, what sort of identification skills are needed and some information on the beautiful waterbirds themselves. If you’re interested in taking part or just want to find out more please come along. 

The session will also be followed up by an optional training day in the field the following weekend (on 16th or 17th November, all details tbc).