Big Garden Birdwatch 2026

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is an annual survey held on the same weekend each year to count the number of birds across the UK. This year marked its 47th year and my 13th year taking part.
It is interesting how this citizen science affects our local population...as in the days approaching, the gardens are abundant with flits here and there, whistles and twips, and splashes in the birdbaths. However, as soon as the weekend itself arrives, not even crickets! That's an exaggeration; birds do still come, but usually in much smaller numbers than usual. 
This year, the weather was extremely gloomy and dull too! Though the heavy rains held off on my third and final attempt on Sunday, it wasn't the best photo-taking conditions. I know that doesn't matter at all, but it is an excuse.
Below are the photos taken during our Big Garden Birdwatch 2026.

See posts from previous years here:
Big Garden Birdwatch 2025
Big Garden Birdwatch 2024
Big Garden Birdwatch 2023
Big Garden Birdwatch 2022

2026 Big Garden Birdwatch Results
Blackbird - 1

Blue Tit - 6
Dunnock - 1
Goldfinch - 2
Great Tit - 4
House Sparrow - 4
Jackdaw - 2
Pigeon (Rock Dove) - 30
Robin - 1
Starling - 2
Wood Pigeon - 1

Total -  54
 

(You only count the birds that land in your garden and only note the most of a species seen at once. For example, throughout the hour, there may be multiple sightings of a blackbird; if there is only ever one visiting at a time, you must submit '1'.)

If you can, I encourage you to feed your local birds. Please also put out fresh, clean water for them at all times of the year, but especially in the hot summers and super cold winters when natural sources may be dried up or frozen over.

For more information on the RSPB, Big Garden Birdwatch and the protection of birds, click here.