Putting birds first
(Information courtesy of the RSPB and the UK’s leading bird conservation organisations)
Birdwatching offers a wonderful way to connect with nature and support bird conservation. Whether you’re exploring a Sussex nature reserve, walking through farmland, or watching birds abroad, following the Birdwatchers’ Code ensures that your enjoyment of birds never comes at their expense.
The Code is based on simple principles of respect, responsibility, and care – for birds, their habitats and the people who share those spaces. It’s supported by the RSPB, BTO, Birdwatch Magazine, and the country’s leading ornithological societies, including the SOS.
With millions of people now taking part in birdwatching each year, it’s more important than ever that we all lead by example, setting high standards for field behaviour and encouraging others to do the same.
Five key principles to remember
Put birds first – Avoid disturbing birds, their nests, and their habitats. Keep a respectful distance and use binoculars or a telescope to enjoy close views without causing distress.
Respect the countryside and other people – Follow the Countryside Code, keep to paths where required, and show courtesy to landowners, farmers, and other visitors.
Be an ambassador for birdwatching – Set a good example through considerate behaviour, accurate recording, and sharing your enthusiasm responsibly.
Share records responsibly – Submit your sightings to the Sussex County Recorder and to the BTO’s BirdTrack website. Accurate records help protect birds and build understanding of population trends.
Think before you share news of rare birds – Consider the welfare of the bird, local residents, and the potential for disturbance, especially during the breeding season. If in doubt, report the sighting quietly and through official channels.
Why it matters
Birdwatching is more popular than ever, with over 3 million adults in the UK enjoying this rewarding hobby. By following the Birdwatchers’ Code, we can all help ensure that birds remain safe, wildlife thrives, and the joy of birding is protected for future generations.
To learn more, download a copy of the Birdwatchers’ Code HERE.
Birding with the Merlin APP
In recent years there has been a surge in popularity of birding apps, such as Birdnet and Merlin, which suggest an identification based upon the sounds or images presented to them. The use of such apps is great fun and to be encouraged since they make for excellent educational tools. However they do, fairly often, get it wrong and generate “false positives”. Because of this the SOS, in line with BTO guidelines, kindly asks users to refrain from adding any record into a database (such as iRecord, Birdtrack or eBird) which is unchecked and based solely upon an app reading.
One great advantage with Merlin is that recordings can be easily saved and stored on the app for future reference. And so the next time your device flashes up a Marsh Warbler or a Golden Oriole, remember to press the “save” button – it could make or break a fantastic record!
David Thorns
