Citizen Scientists Sought to Count Berlin’s Birds: A Call for Participation in the "Hour of Garden Birds" Initiative
Berlin, a bustling metropolis, is also a surprising haven for a diverse range of bird species. From the majestic kestrels soaring above the city skyline to the vibrant kingfishers darting along its waterways, Berlin’s avian residents add a touch of wilderness to the urban landscape. To better understand and monitor these feathered inhabitants, the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association (LBV) are once again calling upon the public to participate in the "Hour of Garden Birds" citizen science project. This initiative aims to gather valuable data on bird populations and distribution across the city, relying on the collective efforts of Berliners to paint a comprehensive picture of the local birdlife.
Scheduled to take place from May 9th to 11th, the "Hour of Garden Birds" encourages individuals to dedicate just one hour to observing and counting the birds they encounter in their gardens, parks, or even from their windows. This simple act of observation can contribute significantly to our understanding of the ecological health of Berlin and the challenges faced by its avian populations.
The organizers of the project are particularly interested in identifying trends and changes in bird populations, which can provide insights into the impacts of urbanization, habitat loss, and climate change. By comparing data collected over multiple years, researchers can track the rise and fall of different species, identify areas where birds are thriving or struggling, and develop targeted conservation strategies to protect these vulnerable creatures.
Berlin’s diverse landscape, ranging from densely populated urban areas to sprawling green spaces and waterways, supports a wide variety of bird species. While common sights like sparrows and pigeons are expected, participants are encouraged to keep an eye out for more elusive and specialized birds.
In the city center, the NABU Berlin recommends searching for the striking goldfinch, easily recognizable by its bright red face and distinctive yellow wing stripes. These charming birds, also known as "Distelfinken" in German, are often found foraging in gardens and parks, adding a splash of color to the urban environment.
Venturing into the outskirts of Berlin, observers may encounter the energetic common redstart. This bird is easily identified by its reddish-orange tail, which it frequently flicks up and down while perched, as if signaling its presence to the world. The common redstart is a migratory species, arriving in Berlin in the spring to breed and raise its young before departing for warmer climates in the fall.
The data collected during the "Hour of Garden Birds" will complement existing official population trends, providing a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the state of Berlin’s birdlife. Citizen science projects like this are invaluable because they allow researchers to gather data across a wide geographic area and over a long period of time, something that would be impossible to achieve without the help of dedicated volunteers.
Participation in the "Hour of Garden Birds" is straightforward and accessible to everyone, regardless of their prior birdwatching experience. All that is required is a quiet spot, a notebook and pen (or a smartphone), and an hour of dedicated observation. Participants are encouraged to choose a location where they can comfortably observe birds, such as their own garden, a nearby park, or even from a window overlooking a green space.
During the observation period, participants should carefully note the different bird species they see and record the highest number of individuals of each species observed at any one time. It’s important to avoid double-counting the same bird multiple times. For example, if you see three sparrows together and then later see two sparrows, you should record the highest number seen, which is three.
Once the observation period is complete, participants can submit their findings through various channels. The preferred method is online submission via the project website or through a dedicated mobile app. Alternatively, results can be submitted by mail. These multiple submission methods ensure that everyone can participate, regardless of their access to technology.
The "Hour of Garden Birds" has already proven to be a resounding success in previous years. Last year, an impressive 1,980 Berliners participated in the event, collectively counting over 36,000 birds. This remarkable level of engagement demonstrates the strong interest in nature and conservation among the city’s residents.
To further encourage participation and provide guidance to aspiring birdwatchers, local NABU groups in Berlin are organizing excursions during the counting weekend. These guided tours offer participants the opportunity to learn more about bird identification, habitat conservation, and the importance of citizen science.
For example, the Lichtenberg district group will be conducting a birdwatching excursion on May 11th at 9:00 AM in the Wartenberger Feldflur, a rural area on the outskirts of Berlin. This is a great opportunity to explore a different part of the city and discover the diverse birdlife that inhabits this unique habitat.
For families with children, a special birdwatching event will be held on May 10th at 2:00 PM in the Rummelsburger Bucht, a waterfront area in eastern Berlin. This event will provide children with a fun and engaging introduction to birdwatching, helping them to develop an appreciation for nature and the importance of protecting our feathered friends.
The "Hour of Garden Birds" is more than just a bird counting exercise; it’s an opportunity for Berliners to connect with nature, learn about their local environment, and contribute to valuable scientific research. By participating in this citizen science project, individuals can play an active role in protecting the city’s biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and wonder of Berlin’s birds.
