Welcome to the British Trust for Ornithology | BTO

A world inspired by birds and informed by science.

Making birdwatching count

We empower 60,000 bird-enthusiasts to gather vital data, develop their skills and be part of a vibrant community.

Championing impartial science

We answer the most pressing questions about birds, through our thorough and impartial scientific research.

Sharing our bird knowledge

We communicate our knowledge and expertise to increase the value of birds and other wildlife for all.

Article

BTO Equipment Donation Scheme

BTO is supporting young people across the UK by supplying them with unused or unwanted birdwatching equipment. Share your passion for birdwatching with the next generation.

Publication

The sound of spring is changing

Using new techniques, this study shows that the birdsong soundscape in Europe and North America has deterioriated over the past 25 years, due to a reduction in acoustic diversity and intensity.

Article

BTO Conference 2021

Join us for a wealth of fascinating free online talks and panels celebrating the efforts of BTO volunteers and scientists.

Find a project

Use our project finder to find the project that matches your level of bird expertise and the time you have available.

Start

BirdTrack

BirdTrack is a free and convenient way of storing your bird records online. BirdTrack lets you keep up to date with what others are seeing, view the latest trends, and contribute your data to BTO science.

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Join BTO today

Discover the curiosities of birds and their world by becoming a BTO Member today.

Gift memberships are also available.

Join BTO

Bird surveyors. Photograph by Jamie Murray-Grant

Develop your skills

Let us help you to improve your birding, fieldcraft and surveying skills. Browse our range of helpful guides and programme of training courses.

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More ways we work

National offices

Representing BTO in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Andy Clements meeting with Westland Horticulture

BTO partnerships

The organisations we work with to achieve our charitable aims.

Fitting a Goshawk with a GPS tracking device

BTO Consulting

Bringing our expertise and advice to industry, within the UK and abroad.

Climate Change Appeal

Please donate today to help us address one of the most important threats our birds face.

Blog

Migration blog – Winter

As we get ever closer to the end of autumn the pace of migration steadily slows, and as the daylight hours shorten so does the variety of birds on the move.