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Together, we're making it count

A huge thank you to everyone who took part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2026. Over half a million of you took part across the UK, but what did you help us find out?

Two friends taking part in the RSPB's annual Big Garden Birdwatch activity in an allotment

What are the findings of the world’s largest garden wildlife survey?

Every year, people take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch by counting the birds they see in their patch. Now in its 47th year, the Birdwatch provides a fascinating snapshot of how garden birds are faring. 

Big Garden Birdwatch 2026: The Results

The Birdwatch began in 1979, when children’s TV programme Blue Peter asked viewers to post in their sightings. Much has changed since the 70s. But what has changed for our birds? Which birds have moved up the charts and which have moved down?

9.4 millionbirds counted during Big Garden Birdwatch 2026
650,000+people took part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2026
13.4 millionhours spent counting birds since 1979

The UK's top five birds

Celebrating its 23rd year at the top of the Big Garden Birdwatch charts is the House Sparrow. These chirpy little characters were the most commonly sighted birds, with 1,275,378 counted over the Birdwatch weekend.

House Sparrow
1,275,378
1
House Sparrow
Blue Tit
1,114,620
2
Blue Tit
Starling
796,002
3
Starling
Woodpigeon
787,190
4
Woodpigeon
Blackbird
598,783
5
Blackbird

Watch the 2026 results rundown 

Sit back and enjoy our short film in which we reveal the Big Garden Birdwatch results 2026. How does the UK’s top ten compare to what you saw in your Birdwatch?

Big Garden Birdwatch results 2026: Who took the top spot?

Loved spotting your garden visitors? Help protect them all year round

By taking part, you've already helped reveal how our birds are doing. Want to keep that impact going all year? Become an RSPB member and turn a weekend of birdwatching into long-term action for nature.

As a member, you'll enjoy:

  • Unlimited entry to 170+ nature reserves - perfect for spotting wildlife and soaking up nature,
  • Regular RSPB magazines full of stories, tips and inspiration,
  • The satisfaction of knowing you're funding vital, long-term conservation projects that protect birds every day.

Make your Birdwatch go further

 

Two volunteers walking down a wooden path at RSPB Montiaghs Moss Nature Reserve, Country Antrim, Northern Ireland

Volunteer with us

Whether you love getting outdoors on an RSPB reserve, supporting essential admin tasks, or connecting with new people, there's an exciting role waiting for you. 

 

Discover all things Big Garden Birdwatch

Looking to find out more? We've got you covered! From the latest nature news and expert articles, to things to do and fun events, take a look. 

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