Native birds are counting on us
EYES up, Dubbo – our native feathered friends need your help.
From October 17-23, we have the opportunity to take part in an important head count of Australia’s beautiful native parrots, with Birdlife Australia’s Aussie Bird Count which aims to uncover new data to help preserve these precious creatures. The data collected by citizen scientists just like us will be used to help the organisation track and protect native birds.
By taking part in the count, which is open to all ages, you’ll not only have some good clean fun in the great outdoors, you’ll also help uncover new information about native parrot species which is important because the existing data shows we have reason to be concerned about the future of these much-loved, brightly coloured birds including the Eastern Rosella – a common sight in Dubbo – and the Australian Ringneck.
All you have to do is spend 20 minutes in your favourite outdoor spot, counting birds you see in that time. You can do this from anywhere – in your backyard, at the park, out in the bush, down near the river or in the main street.
Taking a count at the same time each year builds a snapshot of how Aussie birds are faring, which in turn helps identify trends over time and also gauge the overall health of the environment because birds are something of a barometer of nature. According to Birdlife Australia, there is an urgent need for new bird data due to inconsistent trends across the nation, particularly amongst parrots.
And if saving these beautiful birds isn’t incentive enough, you could also win a share of $10,000 in prizes just by taking part in this year’s count.
To find out more, go to www.aussiebirdcount.org.au
How to take part in the Aussie Bird Count:
● Spend 20 minutes in one spot and note the birds that you see. You’ll need to count the number of each species – eg, you might see four magpies, two Rainbow Lorikeets and a cockatoo. If you can identify birds by their calls, please include these in your count, but if you’re not sure, don’t guess – leave it out. The Aussie Bird Count app has a handy field-guide to help you identify birds.
● Once you have completed your count, you can submit it via the website or through the app.