A newcomer to BTO surveys

When I first became aware of the Breeding Bird survey scheme, I assumed that only very experienced and very knowledgeable birders could meet the necessary requirements.

Although I initially dismissed the thought of undertaking a survey, having had some discussions and taken advice from the Newbury Ringing Group members, I thought that maybe I should give it a try. Even though I am not a very experienced birder, and always on a learning curve, I thought that one average survey would be better than none at all.

I managed to obtain some historic field recording sheets, habitat forms, instructions and transect maps and also studied summaries at the BTO online to give myself a measure of what I should hope to achieve. It became clear that surveyors are always in demand with a number of vacant grid squares available and, as luck would have it, I was fortunate to be allocated a one km grid square close to home which had previously been surveyed and which had transect sections already marked ‘one to ten’ with the walking routes outlined. Each square needs to be visited twice for recording the birds, between April and June, with at least 4 weeks between each visit. They are usually started around 6am and no later than 9, and not in rain or poor visibility.

My first visit to the grid square would be to assess the route for habitat listing, section point markers, access and moving from one path to the next, some of which I totally overlooked. Transect points would be fences, road signs, gates, trees, bridges or a coloured tag tied to a tree or branch. Moving from one transect to another was also overlooked. I found transporting my cycle to use between the two much easier. Also, it was necessary to retrace my paths to the start for my car or cycle. One records every adult bird seen and heard in three distance categories. The Merlin app on my mobile phone helps with birdsong or calls that are difficult to identify even though I am familiar with most of the common birds.

My first survey was carried out in 2023 and the duration of my visit lasted less than two hours including moving between transects and returning to my car. I have now carried out two BBS surveys and am looking forward to my third in this year.

I have enjoyed these morning walks while watching the birds and other wildlife activity at its best and would encourage others, regardless of experience, to try it for themselves. I’m sure every survey helps to give us a better idea of how our countryside is faring, for ourselves and for future generations.