The recent cold snap across Europe is set to influence bird migration patterns, potentially increasing the number of fieldfares and redwings arriving in the UK. This trend could lead to unexpected sightings during the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, which kicks off this Friday, 23rd January, and runs through the weekend.
Impact of European Weather on Bird Movements
Unsettled and frigid conditions in parts of Europe, including Poland and Scandinavia, are driving more birds to seek refuge in the relatively milder British winters. According to the RSPB, this annual migration is primarily motivated by the need to escape extreme cold and find more abundant food sources. Beccy Speight, chief executive of the RSPB, highlighted that the UK serves as a crucial haven for these migratory species.
Details of the Big Garden Birdwatch
The Big Garden Birdwatch, launched in 1979, is the world's largest garden wildlife survey. It invites participants to spend an hour observing and counting birds in their gardens or local parks, then report their findings to the RSPB. Last year, nearly 600,000 people took part, recording over 9 million birds from more than 80 species, including approximately 3,000 fieldfares and redwings.
Recent Trends in Bird Spotting
In the 2025 survey, woodpigeons rose to become the third most recorded bird in the UK, marking a shift in spotting patterns. The house sparrow maintained its top position for the 22nd consecutive year, followed by the blue tit. Starlings, however, dropped out of the top three, reflecting changes in bird populations and observer habits.
Community Engagement and Educational Initiatives
Beyond the public event, the RSPB runs a parallel programme for schools during the first week of the spring term in February, encouraging educational participation in birdwatching. Speight emphasised the value of these activities, noting that even on grey winter days, local birds bring a touch of wildness and nature into everyday life.
Top Birds from Last Year's Survey
The top 10 birds spotted in the previous Big Garden Birdwatch were:
- House sparrow
- Blue tit
- Woodpigeon
- Starling
- Blackbird
- Robin
- Great tit
- Goldfinch
- Magpie
- Long-tailed tit
As the survey approaches, birdwatchers across the UK are encouraged to keep an eye out for these and other species, with the potential for rare migratory visitors adding excitement to the annual count.
