About

About Manx BirdLife

Manx BirdLife is the independent wildlife conservation charity based in the Isle of Man working to protect, restore and enhance the Island’s wild bird populations and the habitats on which they depend.

We care passionately about the natural world. We are deeply concerned about the biodiversity crisis affecting species and habitats and believe wild birds play a vital, functional role in the ecosystem.

Founded in 1997 under the name ‘Manx Bird Atlas’, the charity changed to its present name in 2008. Through strong partnerships with the Manx Ornithological Society (MOS), Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT), the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the Isle of Man Government and others, we use scientific research, best practice conservation, education and advocacy to achieve our goals.

Making a difference

Manx BirdLife is working to sustain the abundance and diversity of wild birds on the Isle of Man through:

• Surveys and Censuses Monitoring the diversity and abundance of bird populations, especially breeding populations and productivity. e.g. the 2022 Hen Harrier census
• Conservation projects Working with partners and landowners to develop action plans that deliver significant, sustainable benefits for species of concern. e.g. working with Manx Wildlife Trust and other landowners on the Island’s Farmland birds
• Citizen Science Asking the island’s residents and visitors to record their observations and inviting participation in regular programmes such as the Isle of Man Garden Birdwatch Scheme which has now been running for over 20 years
• Environmental Education Working with all of the Island’s primary schools to educate children about the amazing wildlife found on the Isle of Man
• Habitat Creation, in 2019 the charity embarked on a once in a generation opportunity to create a nature reserve at the Point of Ayre.  This will be developed over the next 20+ years to produce a fantastic resource for both the people and the wildlife of the Ise of Man.

• Consultations: Advising private, commercial and government parties on the environmental impact of building and other developments on the island.
• Giving a voice to wild birds: Engaging with decision-makers and influencers in the public and private sector to promote the value and interests of wild birds and their habitats.
• Publications: The seminal Manx Bird Atlas (Ed.1) documents the distribution of breeding and wintering birds during 1998-2003.

We depend on your support

As a charity, Manx BirdLife depends on donations and the selfless work of volunteers to achieve our objectives. Without these, the prospects for the Island’s wild birds and their habitats would be greatly diminished. We believe future generations should be able to enjoy the diversity and numbers of wild birds that we are able to enjoy today, nothing less. Please take a look at how you can support our vital work. Thank you.