Contributing Organisations

British Trust for Ornithology (BTO)

The British Trust for Ornithology has existed since 1933 as an independent, scientific research trust, investigating the populations, movements and ecology of wild birds in the British Isles. Our speciality is the design and implementation of volunteer wild bird surveys. Our partnership between a large number of volunteers and a small scientific staff has proved to be a powerful, productive and cost-effective way of monitoring wild birds.

Volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life put their bird-watching skills to good use. They record wild birds systematically using survey methods developed by our scientists, who then compile the records and analyse them for publication. This work makes a direct and vital contribution to bird conservation, by enabling both campaigners and decision-makers to set priorities and target resources. It also provides a unique insight into the state of our environment and how it may be changing.

The British Trust for Ornithology is a not-for-profit trust, governed by its members through a structure of volunteer committees, which determine our policies and programmes and oversee our management. You can support the BTO in various ways: by contributing bird records, by joining as a member or by making a donation.

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife, tackling the problems that threaten our environment. We are the largest wildlife conservation organisation in Europe with over one million members. Wildlife and the environment face many threats. Our work is focussed on the species and habitats that are in the greatest danger.

Bird populations reflect the health of the planet on which our future depends. The need for an effective bird conservation organisation has never been greater. Climate change, agricultural intensification, expansion of urban areas and transport infrastructure, and over-exploitation of our seas all pose major threats to birds. The RSPB could not exist without its supporters and members. Whether you join us, give a donation, purchase items from us or undertake voluntary work, your support is vital to the future of birds and the places where they live.

Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC)

JNCC is the public body that advises the UK Government and devolved administrations on UK-wide and international nature conservation.

Our work helps maintain and enrich biological diversity and conserve geological features. It also helps sustain natural systems, which provide the core “services” we all depend on like food, fresh water and clean air. In this way they contribute to economic growth and social well-being and are integral to sustainable development.

Good policy-making, planning, development and risk management all depend on reliable, up-to-date information about biodiversity status and trends. Our role is to provide evidence, information and advice so decisions can be made that protect our natural resources and systems. JNCC itself is a forum that brings together the UK’s four country conservation bodies. We advise Government and a wide range of bodies to help join up policy and to deliver a strong and cost-effective evidence base by helping to see that the best possible return is achieved from investment in research and surveillance in the UK and internationally.

JNCC are an SMP Partner on behalf of the statutory nature conservation bodies: Natural England, Natural Resources Wales and NatureScot and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Northern Ireland.

Advisory Group members

Below are all members of the Advisory Group. Click on the logo to link through to their website.