Bird Surveys were originally instigated by the Park Management in 2006, and taken on by the Friends group later that year.
We pass on our results to the London Natural History Society for inclusion in national records.
The purpose of the survey is to help assess the wildlife value of the park, and the effect of the changes that are being made to manage the park in a way to encourage more wildlife. Birds are at, or near, the top of the food chain, so if they are doing well it is reasonable to assume that invertebrates, and the plants they feed on, are also doing well.
The park and garden are divided into areas, and the survey volunteers record sightings in their allocated area once a month. We also note any unusual sightings seen at other times. We make every effort to avoid counting the same bird twice. Once a year we do the monthly survey with everyone out at the same time, and the results are consistent with the monthly counts, so we feel we are doing as well as is possible in such a large and varied area.
We record over 30 species in the course of a year, and are still finding new visiting and resident birds, notably resident Nuthatches and visiting Egyptian Geese.
The annual report for 2020, shows all species and the maximum number recorded in a month.
If you would like any further information, or want to consider helping with the survey, please contact us on [email protected].
PS Thanks to Jonathan for the fantastic Long Tailed Tit picture!