Residents urged to join annual bird count

NORTHERN Rivers residents are being asked to spend 20 minutes outdoors next month counting the birds in their backyards, parks and favourite walking spots as part of the 2025 Aussie Bird Count.

The citizen science project, run by BirdLife Australia, will take place from October 20 to 26.

Now in its 12th year, the count helps track changes in bird populations across urban and regional areas and is one of the largest wildlife surveys in the country.

Last year more than 57,000 people submitted nearly 130,000 checklists, logging 4.1 million birds. The rainbow lorikeet, noisy miner and Australian magpie were the most commonly counted species.

BirdLife Australia national public affairs manager Sean Dooley said the event was open to everyone.

“It’s not about being a bird expert,” Dooley said. “It’s about spending time outdoors and learning something new about your local environment.

“The Aussie Bird Count shows how citizen science can bring families and communities together while contributing to our understanding of Australia’s unique wildlife. A simple 20-minute activity can become an annual family tradition.”

BirdLife Australia chief executive Kate Millar said the results also contributed to a growing database used for conservation planning.

“Birds are indicators of environmental health. One in six Australian bird species is now under threat, so taking note of the birds around us has never been more important,” Millar said.

“Whether you’re a regular birder or someone who just enjoys the occasional kookaburra laugh or lorikeet fly-by, we’re inviting everyone across the country to pause, step outside, and count the birds that share their skies, gardens and daily walks.”

Participants can register online or download the free Aussie Bird Count app, which also helps with bird identification. For details visit aussiebirdcount.org.au.