Big Botanic Garden Birdwatch

Whats the Event about?

The Big Garden Bird watch is the biggest UK citizen science project. The data collected by participants helps scientists track changes in bird populations over time, which can reveal the impacts of climate change on ecosystems and identify shifts in bird populations and migration patterns linked to changing temperatures, such as:

• Species moving northward or to higher altitudes as temperatures rise.
• Changes in breeding seasons or food sources.

This information is crucial for adapting conservation strategies to protect vulnerable species.

Join us for the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to one of the UK’s largest citizen science projects! Taking place in the beautiful surroundings of St Andrews Botanic Garden, this event will include:

Birdwatching Session: Explore the garden and help us count the birds you see, contributing valuable data to help monitor bird populations.

Expert Talk: Gain insights into the fascinating world of bird behaviour with a special talk and demonstration by a leading bird behaviour scientist.

What you will learn

· How to identify a variety of common UK garden birds.

· The importance of citizen science in monitoring bird populations and supporting conservation efforts.

· Key bird behaviours and what they reveal about their ecology and environment.

· Practical tips for birdwatching and how to record data effectively

No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and a pair of binoculars if you have them (some will also be available on-site).

Admission: Free with booking

Transport Information:

• By Car: The garden is accessible by road, with a free car park available on site. There are two blue badge parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
• By Bicycle: Bike racks are available at the Visitor Centre for cyclists.
• By Public Transport: The garden is approximately a 10-minute walk from St Andrews Bus Station. Additionally, the 99C bus route passes near the garden, taking about 5 minutes from the town centre.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Leuchars, about a 20-minute drive or 25-minute bus ride away.

Accessibility:

• The Visitor Centre, car park, and bike racks are on Canongate (KY16 8RT), a ten-minute walk from St Andrews Bus Station.
• Accessible toilets are located in the Visitor Centre.
• Talk will be inside our Boilerhouse, which has wheelchair access, bird spotting will be out and about but we have wheelchair friendly paths around the Garden
• Highly trained assistance animals are welcome.

For more details on events and planning your visit, please refer to the official website: