Farmers encouraged to join the Big Farmland Bird Count

The Big Farmland Bird Count, run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, is calling on farmers and land managers across the UK to take part in its annual survey of farmland birds.

The project highlights the vital role that working farms play in supporting wildlife—particularly at a time when the UK has lost more than 70 million wild birds in the last 50 years, with over 60% of farmland species affected.

TV presenter and farmer Adam Henson is backing the initiative, describing it as a practical way for farmers to demonstrate the value of nature‑friendly farming and track the benefits of habitat and feeding measures on their land.

🌾 How It Works

• Choose one 30‑minute slot between the official count dates.
• Pick a single location on your farm—ideally somewhere with good visibility.
• Record all bird species and numbers you see during that half hour.
• Submit your results online via the BFBC website.

The count is designed to be quick, simple, and compatible with busy farm schedules. It also provides a useful annual snapshot of how your conservation work is paying off.

🌱 Why Take Part?

• Demonstrate the environmental value of your farm.
• Track changes in bird numbers year on year.
• Support national data on farmland bird recovery.
• Get access to free bird ID guides and resources to help with the count.

🔗 Want to Get Involved?

Farmers can find full details, downloadable ID guides, and sign‑up information on the Big Farmland Bird Count website: https://www.bfbc.org.uk