Big Schools' Birdwatch

On Wednesday the 8th of February I organised our school to take part in the RSPB's Big Schools' Birdwatch. We soon received our free id poster and I before we knew it we were outside counting the birds!

We decided the best place to do this was in our newly developed conservation area which includes bird feeders, 2 fat ball feeders, a ground feeder, one hanging feeder and a bird table.

The children from year 6 (aged 10-11) came out in two groups; they sat outside doing some colouring in whilst they came over in groups of 4-7 to a small hide we set up. Each group had about 10 minutes to spot as many birds as they could. All the children were very enthusiastic and were eager to tell me what birds they see at home on their own bird feeders too! Overall, we had a good turnout of birds, including Black-headed gulls, Goldfinches, Blue tits, Magpies, Wood pigeons and House Sparrows. Each of the children brought their own binoculars, which gave me a good chance to try out for the first time Opticron Natura BGA ED binoculars. They are fantastic; they feel very sturdy in the hand and provide light clear views!

Due to its success this year I am looking forward to doing the Big Schools' Birdwatch next year and getting more children involved and perhaps doing more activities on the day, such as making our own bird feeders.