The
BTO/JNCC/RSPB Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) is run by the British Trust for
Ornithology (BTO). It is a national project aimed at keeping track of
changes in the breeding populations of widespread bird species in the
UK. The BBS involves over 1,700 participants who now survey more than
2000 sites across the UK, over 100 of them in Hampshire. Knowing to what
extent bird populations are increasing or decreasing is fundamental to
bird conservation.
The
survey is designed to be a quick, simple and, most importantly, an
enjoyable birdwatching exercise. Survey sites are randomly selected
1x1-kilometre (km) squares of the National Grid. Observers make just
three visits to specially selected squares, the first to record habitat
types and to set up a suitable survey route, and the second and third to
record birds that are seen or heard while walking along the route.
Identification of all birds both heard and seen is required, but
territories are not mapped.
For
more information about the BBS, go to
http://www.bto.org/bbs/index.htm
In
Hants, we’re often needing additional BBS volunteers. To find out more
about how you might get involved and help in Hampshire ….
contact
