As I walked to work today a flash of light blue passed me. I looked up and saw a Blue Tit had just landed in the tree ahead of me. I love it when it’s early morning and the birds feel like they’re keeping me company on my commute. Or when I’m taking a breather on the allotment and a Robin comes and inspects my hard work. There’s just something about them that makes you slow down and realise that we share the world with other living things. They have fascinated me since I was little. My Dad showed me how to use the binoculars to spot some curlews wandering around in the mud. I am not an expert on birds nor am I a committed birdwatcher – but that’s what’s great about them – you don’t need to be to enjoy them!
Whether you’re already a big fan of birds or completely new to noticing them, a great opportunity to enjoy them is the Big Garden Birdwatch. This is a campaign by the RSPB to get everyone involved with spotting and recording the birds which are in gardens, allotments, parks and other open spaces in the UK. It’s suitable for everyone because you can do it out and about or inside from your window.
So, it’s great for science but it’s also great for us! Taking time to notice our natural world can bring us calmness, joy and rest – the perfect combo for mind and body.
The Big Garden Birdwatch takes place the weekend of the 27th-29th January. You can find out more about it and how to take part by clicking HERE.
RSPB