Grab your brightest pencils and prepare for a burst of creative colour! In a delightful fusion of art and ornithology, The Guardian has launched a series of exclusive colouring sheets, inviting everyone to celebrate Australia's spectacular birdlife.
Acclaimed Australian artist Pete Cromer, renowned for his vibrant and textured collages, has specially crafted these beautiful templates. This initiative is a core part of the build-up to the highly anticipated 2025 Australian Bird of the Year poll, a biennial event that captivates the nation.
Channel Your Creativity and Connect with Nature
This isn't just an activity for children; it's a call to arms for bird lovers, art enthusiasts, and families across the UK and beyond to engage with Australian nature in a uniquely personal way. The project aims to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation through the simple, meditative act of colouring.
The downloadable sheets feature some of Australia's most iconic and beloved feathered residents. While the full list is a delightful surprise, participants can expect to bring to life the vivid plumage of species like the charismatic Sulphur-crested Cockatoo or the brilliantly hued Rainbow Lorikeet.
How to Join the Flock
Getting involved is effortlessly simple:
- Visit The Guardian's website to find the dedicated article hosting the colouring sheets.
- Download and print your favourite bird templates completely free of charge.
- Unleash your creativity with pencils, paints, or pastels—the choice is yours!
- Share your masterpiece on social media using the official hashtag to connect with a community of fellow artists and birdwatchers.
This creative campaign serves as the perfect primer for the main event. The Australian Bird of the Year poll, a partnership between The Guardian and BirdLife Australia, opens for voting on Monday, 23 September 2025. The colouring sheets are a fantastic way to learn about the contenders and build excitement before casting your vote.
So, whether you're seeking a moment of mindful relaxation, a fun educational activity for the family, or a way to show your support for your favourite bird, these beautiful sheets by Pete Cromer are your passport to a more colourful world.
