Welcome to British Trust for Ornithology
We are a Registered Charity, working to secure the future for birds and nature, using our science, monitoring and data to inform good environmental decisions, inspiring others with the wonder of birds and empowering them to work with us. Our priority is to make a positive impact for birds and people, using our strong and objective science in partnership with others. We strive to work sustainably and to welcome everyone.
A unique partnership, needed now more than ever
Our unique, long-term partnership between volunteer observers and professional staff has afforded us a deep understanding of birds in a changing world. Our science and data are telling us loud and clear that nature is in trouble. The urgency with which we need to ensure a more secure future for nature demands us to do more with our wealth of data, knowledge and expertise. Remaining rooted in science, we are focused on finding solutions and making a difference for both birds and people.
Bird Camp 2026
BTO Youth will be running camps in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while BTO and the Scottish Ornithologists’ Club (SOC) will be working in partnership to deliver the Scotland Bird Camp.
Waterbirds report published
Published on 16 April 2026, the annual report for the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) and the Goose and Swan Monitoring Programme (GSMP) presents key information about the UK’s wintering waterbird species, collected by 4,000 dedicated volunteers.
The report reveals how monitoring in winter can be used as indicators for Arctic breeding birds, the sites used in spring by Pink-footed Geese as they head north, and contains a special focus on our wintering gull populations.
Becoming (more) inclusive
BTO is committed to reducing and removing the barriers to equity and diversity, and creating an inclusive environment. Our activities and events are open to everyone, but we recognise there is room to grow with regard to EDI.
Take part in a wide range of projects and surveys
Support our core surveys
Training, guides and events
Get involved wherever you are
From England to Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, BTO welcomes everyone to get involved wherever they are—and works to make sure its monitoring projects cover the whole of the UK.
