The Swinton Estate is taking part in The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Big Farmland Bird Count – the UK’s largest citizen science survey of its kind. It’s a simple but powerful way to contribute to national data by spending just half an hour noting the birds you see or hear and submitting the information.
The aim is to build a clearer picture of how bird numbers vary across different landscapes and land management approaches, helping conservationists track long-term trends. On the Swinton Estate, we have, on occasion, recorded English partridge, merlin, curlew, and lapwing, highlighting how important regular monitoring can be for understanding rural biodiversity.
You can take part too! Choose a location, observe for 30 minutes, and make a note of the habitat around you and the time of day, along with the species you spot or hear. The Merlin Bird ID app can be a helpful tool, listening to bird calls in real time and making participation accessible for both experienced birdwatchers and beginners alike.
Find out more and take part here: https://www.bfbc.org.uk/
