Big Garden Birdwatch 2024: Huge survey shows some birds species need help

House Sparrow perched on a bird feederImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

The House Sparrow has been a popular spot in this year's bird watch

The results of the Big Garden Birdwatch 2024 are in.

It is the world's largest garden wildlife survey and shows us how birds are adapting to new challenges.

Changes in farming methods and the quality of water in UK rivers both impact birds' habitats and food supply.

The Big Garden Birdwatch began in 1979, when Blue Peter asked viewers to post in their sightings.

Over the past 45 years, volunteers from across the UK have helped the RSPB by taking an hour to track the birds living in their gardens and local green spaces.

It happens every year and the results help experts monitor the bird populations in the UK to see which ones are thriving and which ones need of some extra help.

What were the top five birds spotted during the BGB in 2024?

  • House Sparrow

  • Blue Tit

  • Starling

  • Woodpigeon

  • Blackbird

Source: RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

But we want to test your knowledge - do you think you're a bird boffin?

Big Garden Birdwatch 2024: What are the results?

Media caption,

Big Garden Birdwatch: Martin's surprise visit from a sparrowhawk... and a cheeky robin!

Around 9.7 million birds were counted in the 2024 survey, with more than 610,000 people taking part.

The House Sparrow was the most commonly spotted with 1,442,300 sightings. It has been top of the pecking order for 21 years now, however their numbers have significantly declined over that time.

Great Tits have moved up a place to number seven, while the Goldfinch has dropped down to eighth place.