Birdwatching has shed its old-fashioned image as a new study reveals a 47% increase in the activity since 2018, driven largely by younger generations. According to research by Fifty5Blue published by the RSPB, almost 750,000 Gen Zers (16 to 29-year-olds) in Britain now regularly watch birds, marking a 1,088% rise over eight years.
Among millennials, birdwatching has increased by 216%, while Gen X saw a 66% rise. The study, which analyzed more than 24,000 people, found birdwatching is now the second fastest growing hobby for Gen Z after jewellery making. Jess Painter, 24, a member of the RSPB's Youth Council, noted that social media has helped spread knowledge and passion in new ways.
Molly Brown, 29, a wildlife adviser at the RSPB, said the research shows that birdwatching is “no longer a niche or old-fashioned pastime” and is attracting a younger, more diverse crowd. She emphasized that it is accessible to everyone, encouraging people to get outside, exercise, and slow down.
The findings were released ahead of International Dawn Chorus Day on the first Sunday in May. The RSPB is urging people to wake up early to experience the dawn chorus, which peaks during spring. Dr. Amir Khan, RSPB president, highlighted that hearing birdsong can boost serotonin and that connecting with nature is inherent to humans, a concept known as the biophilia hypothesis.
A recent study also suggested that birdwatching may slow age-related cognitive decline. The RSPB hopes the trend will continue to grow as more people discover the joys of watching birds.
