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Scottish schoolchildren take part in world's biggest wildlife survey
Last modified: 16 January 2012
The biggest survey of wildlife in Scotland’s schools starts today, as thousands of pupils and teachers turn their classrooms into bird hides, all in the name of science.
The RSPB’s annual Big Schools Birdwatch, which runs from the 16th January- 30th January 2012, encourages children to look for and count the birds that share their school environment.
Last year saw a record breaking 386 schools in Scotland take part, with the blackbird emerging as the most common playground visitor.
The survey helps to paint a picture of how birds are faring. Since its launch in 2002, more than 70 different species have been recorded in schools grounds, ranging from starlings to kestrels.
Simple to set up and fun to do, the Big Schools Birdwatch is a great opportunity to teach and inspire children about their nature environment.
Some schools make the activity the centrepiece of a whole week devoted to learning about wild birds. Other schools hold birdwatch breakfasts and after-school wildlife clubs.
Rebekah Stackhouse, Education and Youth Programmes Manager, said: “What is so great about the Big Schools Birdwatch is that not only is it a useful piece of ‘citizen science, it’s also an ideal opportunity for children to experience nature first hand. Outdoor learning is a vital part of a child’s education, and offers many varied benefits to them.
“It couldn’t be easier to get involved too. All you need to do is watch and count the birds in your school grounds for one hour, then submit your results to the RSPB. Whether you see several exotic species or just a few of the commonest birds, it doesn’t matter – all sightings are useful to us!”
No birdwatching expertise is necessary for teachers, helpers or children and the RSPB has produced a free schools pack containing everything a teacher will need. The emphasis is on having fun and joining in. The pack includes guidance notes, a full colour bird identification poster, counting charts and survey form.
For further information about Big Schools’ Birdwatch, and to register for a free teachers pack, visit the RSPB website www.rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch or ring 0300456 8340 (calls charged at standard rate). The hotline number will be operational until 30 January 2012.
What can I do?
Find out what birds are visiting your school grounds by getting involved in our annual Big Schools' Birdwatch.
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