Welcome to the BTO

Looking out for birds? Share your interest in birds with others by being part of the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO). Volunteer surveyors, members and staff work in partnership to provide unbiased information about birds and their habitats. Join or volunteer today and make birds count.

Spotted Flycatcher. Photograph by John Harding

A northern powerhouse

The latest Breeding Bird Survey report, which has just been published, shows a 66% increase for Spotted Flycatcher during 2011–2016 and a 21% upturn for Willow Warbler in Scotland over the last 23 years. In England, both of these birds are in trouble. Read the full 2017 BBS report to find out more.

Three tagged Cuckoos back in the UK

We now have three of our satellite tagged Cuckoos back. Selborne in the New Forest, Hampshire and PJ and Victor in King's Forest, Suffolk. We are still waiting for Larry and Peckham. Follow the journey of our Cuckoos.

Spring Raffle winning numbers

The winning ticket numbers have now been drawn for the Spring Raffle 2018 and can be viewed here. Winners are currently in the process of being contacted. A massive thanks to everyone who took part and helped to raise almost £42,000 in ticket sales and donations to fund our work looking out for birds.

BTO Heronries Census - 90 not out.

2018 marks the 90^th anniversary for BTO’s longest running survey, which has been carried out annually since 1928, and, as far as anyone is aware, is the longest for any breeding bird in the world. To celebrate BTO is asking birdwatchers to tell them about any heronries they see; adding even more information to this incredibly long-running study. Heronries can be added by clicking on the location in the vacant sites map.

Other recent news

Feed the birds? Scientists highlight risks of disease at garden bird feeders

Selborne is back

Two tagged Cuckoos almost back in UK