Fly high in this year’s Aussie Bird Count
Published: 26 Sep 2024 8:34am
How many different kinds of birds live near you?
Next month’s Aussie Bird Count is a way to help answer that question.
Wagga Wagga City Council’s Environmental Education Officer Christina Reid says all you need is a mobile phone and a spare 20 minutes.
“The Aussie Bird Count is a citizen science project run by Birdlife Australia and takes place between 14-20 October and asks every Australian to get involved by recording the birds they see around them,” Ms Reid said.
“This is an activity for all ages involving observing and counting the birds that live near you – whether that’s in your garden, the local park, a beach or even your town centre.
“You don’t need to be an expert bird watcher, but the more you participate the closer you’ll get to becoming one!”
Ms Reid said if you register you can download a free app that will help you identify different bird species.
“The app is free and really easy to use, so you’ll learn a lot about our native birds.
“By recording the number of birds you’ve seen within a 20-minute period, you’ll be helping organisations like Birdlife Australia learn more about the common species living where people live.
“It’s these common species that give us the best indication of our environment’s health.”
To help you on your way, Council has some bird-related events and activities taking place over the week, such as Wagga Wagga City Library’s bird-themed Story Time at the Marrambidya Wetland and walks along the Wiradjuri Trail in the company of local experts.
“The group events can help you if you’re unsure how to use the app or want to talk to a bird-nerd about a bird you have trouble identifying … or just come along to meet other people who love birds!”
You can register to take part in this year’s Aussie Bird Watch from 4 October.
To learn more about the national event and to register, go here: