Understanding biodiversity in Scottish gardens

Developing our understanding of biodiversity in Scotland's gardens: the role of the BTO's Garden BirdWatch

Toms, M., Humphreys, L. & Wernham, C. (2011)

in The Changing Nature of Scotland. Marrs, S.J., Foster, S., Hendrie, C., Mackey, E.C. & Thompson, D.B.A. (eds). TSO Scotland. ISBN. 978-0-11-497359-9

change_nat_soctland_cov_0.jpg

Abstract:

Gardens are an increasingly important habitat for biodiversity in the UK, but are difficult to monitor because they are in private ownership. The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) Garden BirdWatch scheme taps into the enthusiasm that many garden-owners have for garden wildlife and works with them to monitor this wildlife through a "citizen science" approach. Garden BirdWatch data have been analysed to understand the changes in annual and seasonal use of gardens by birds and other wildlife. The Garden BirdWatch scheme has established itself as a key source of information for the government's 'Indicator of breeding town and garden bird populations' in England, one of a number of habitat-based biodiversity indicators used in conservation science research.

Download this paper as part of the chapter on settlements and built development

Access The Changing Nature of Scotland online

Biodiversity loss and the UK’s birds

Biodiversity loss is one of the biggest drivers of bird population declines in the UK. Learn what we’re doing to tackle this threat to nature and how you can support our work.

Blog

BirdTrack migration blog – early spring

It may still feel like winter but for some species, the increasing temperatures and lengthening days have already kick-started spring migration, with birds starting to arrive and depart across Britain and Ireland.

Case Study

BTO Data Reports

Our reports provide rigorous scientific information to inform Environmental Impact Assessments in the UK.