Welcome to the Manx Schools’ Birdwatch!
Would you like to inspire the next generation of scientists and conservationists at your school?
If so, the Manx Schools’ Birdwatch will do just that!
Count data children collect is combined with data collected by the public in the Manx BirdLife Garden Birdwatch which has been monitoring the Island’s garden bird populations for over 20 years. The data helps Manx BirdLife understand which species are doing well and which are declining and need help.
What’s involved?
Children count birds in their school grounds throughout the year and send the data to Manx BirdLife every quarter. We ask that the children count for at least 15 minutes a week or 30 minutes a month – if they can spend more time counting that’s great! It is OK to miss school holidays, and the odd week here and there – we understand school timetables are jam-packed and can change at the drop of a hat!
Manx BirdLife Education Manager visits your school to give an assembly to enthuse and inspire the children about the project, help with bird identification and to explain the purpose of the project. Children can then start counting birds at any time in the year.
It is up to your school which children do the counts, and the cohort can change to allow multiple age groups to get involved. Certain cohorts might particularly benefit from taking part or it could become an eco-club responsibility.
Read the Manx Schools’ Birdwatch Information Booklet (Cronnaghey-Eeanlee Scoillyn Vannin Lioaran-fyssereeto)
Click on the link to view an example of the survey form
A new survey form will be emailed to your school every quarter and The Round Robin newsletter twice a year. The newsletter is a space for children to share their birdwatching news, stories and artwork with their school community and other birdwatching schools
“As a thank you for taking part, your school will receive a nestbox to put up in your grounds, wildflower seeds for birds and a certificate. Children can also use their data and the topic of birds and their habitats across their curriculum learning. It is free to take part.”
Many wild bird populations are declining, including Herring Gull, House Sparrow, and Greenfinch, which could use your grounds for feeding, nesting and roosting. By taking part in Wild Challenge activities, children can re-connect with nature and help the populations of these species to recover and thrive. Children can also achieve Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates for their efforts!
