Join in the count of backyard birds

PEOPLE of all ages have been asked to participate in a nation-wide bird count to improve the knowledge of the Geelong region’s feathered friends.

The City of Greater Geelong is partnering with Bird Life Australia for this year’s Aussie Backyard Bird Count, to identify which of Australia’s 800-odd bird species are found in our region’s backyards and outdoor spaces.

To take part in the count, which began on Monday, register at aussiebirdcount.org.au or download the Aussie backyard Bird Count app on the App Store or Google Play.

Once registered, participants simply type in the common names of the birds spotted and their location. Each entry is recorded on to the Bird Life Australia database, and results from across the Geelong region are already flowing in.

A field guide located in the app helps people identify more than 400 types of birds commonly found in Australia.

Following the bird count, the city will receive data about local bird populations to help inform decisions to enhance native birdlife in our region.

The Aussie Backyard Bird Count runs until Sunday, October 28.

“This survey is a great opportunity for people to better connect with our environment and I’d encourage everyone to register and download the app so they can take part in this important community science program,” Cr Sarah Mansfield said.

“Birdlife Australia plays a critical role supporting our native bird life and the health of birds is a really strong indicator of the health of our overall natural environment.

“The results from the survey will help us gain a more comprehensive understanding of local bird life in our region and better and track and monitor any changes in the future.”