It's almost time for the Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023! On this annual event, students from all over the country gather to observe and identify birds in their local area. With binoculars in hand, young birders are ready to explore the outdoors and make new feathered friends. Whether it's your first bird watch or you're a seasoned veteran, you won't want to miss this exciting opportunity to get up close and personal with nature. Join us on the Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023 and get ready to spot some amazing birds!
What is the Big Schools' Bird Watch?
The Big Schools' Bird Watch is an annual event organized by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) which encourages schoolchildren across the UK to take part in a nation-wide bird watching challenge. This year, the event will be taking place from 15th January to 28th February 2023. The event was first established in 1993, by environmental education specialist and author, Professor Colin Harrison Dunbar, who wanted to bring a greater appreciation of nature and the environment into schools.
The aim of the Big Schools' Bird Watch is to engage children with the natural world and provide them with the opportunity to connect with nature through the activity of bird watching. During the event, students can take part in a variety of activities such as making bird feeders, creating bird-friendly habitats, recording bird sightings, and more. The data collected during the event will help to inform RSPB research into British birds and their habitats.
This year's event offers an exciting opportunity for schoolchildren to engage in scientific exploration and connect with nature, while also learning about the importance of conservation and protecting our environment.
When is it?
The Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023 is taking place in the United Kingdom on February 5th and 6th. Organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) this two-day event will give children and adults alike a chance to experience nature in a unique way. By participating in The Big Schools' Bird Watch, you'll be able to learn more about the birds of your local area, help scientists track bird populations, and take part in a fun and educational activity. So mark your calendar for February 5th and 6th and get ready to discover the feathered friends living around you!
How can I make the most of my experience?
Making the most of your Big Schools' Bird Watch experience is all about being prepared. The Dunbar number states that humans can typically maintain strong relationships with no more than 150 people. Just like that, you can only see so many birds at a time. To make sure you’re ready to spot any feathered friends that come your way, here are some tips:
• Invest in a pair of good binoculars and a bird book. It’s important to know what kinds of birds are native to the area, and you can’t always spot them from far away.
• Dress appropriately for the weather. Depending on where you’re going, you could be facing extreme cold or intense heat, so make sure you’re dressed accordingly.
• Bring snacks and plenty of water. You may end up staying out for longer than expected, and it’s always better to be prepared.
• Keep your distance from the birds. Don’t try to get too close; instead, watch from a respectful distance and enjoy the show.
• Take plenty of pictures! Documenting your experience is a great way to remember the day and share it with friends and family.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to make the most out of your Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023 experience. Get your binoculars ready, and don’t forget to have fun!
What kinds of birds can I expect to see?
The Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023 is your chance to spot some amazing feathered friends, right in your own backyard. Depending on where you live and the time of year, you could find a wide variety of birds. Common species you could expect to see include robins, cardinals, wrens, and blue jays. Some more unique species may also be spotted during the event, such as warblers, vireos, and tanagers.
The Big Schools' Bird Watch, has compiled a list of "target birds" they'd like students to focus on during the event. These birds include Red-winged Blackbirds, American Goldfinches, House Finches, Eastern Phoebes, and Tufted Titmice. With some luck, you may even get a glimpse of an American Kestrel or a Pileated Woodpecker! So grab your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for these unique birds. Who knows what you'll see!
How can I participate?
The Big Schools' Bird Watch 2023 is open to all ages, but especially encourages participation from school-aged children. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) are dedicated to helping teachers, students, and parents get involved in this exciting experience. There are a number of ways to participate, such as signing up for the free email course, downloading the official Bird Watch app, or even taking part in an organized event. For educators, there are also online resources available such as lesson plans and activities, which can be tailored to the age group and topic being studied. Additionally, there is an online store where you can purchase equipment like binoculars and bird feeders to make the most of your experience.