"Hour of the Winter Birds": BirdLife Austria Calls for Winter Bird Count

From January 3 to 6, 2026, it's time again: "Count with us!" when the "Hour of Winter Birds" takes place for the 17th time. What number of birds and what feathered surprises will be seen in Austria's gardens this time? The participation folder can be ordered free of charge at buero@birdlife.at or 01/522 22 28 or accessed online at www.birdlife.at.

"Count with us!": Count Winter Birds and Win Prizes

From January 3 to 6, 2026, the motto is once again: "Count with us!". "Count the birds in the garden, on the balcony, or in the park for one hour and report your observations to us. You will make a valuable contribution to the study of our winter bird world. In addition, there are great prizes to be won!" explains Evelyn Hofer from BirdLife Austria. About 27,000 people participated in the last count in January 2025 and counted around 646,000 birds. The great tit was most frequently represented in domestic gardens. While about 40 birds per report were observed in the first six nationwide counts in Austria, the results in recent years have hardly exceeded 30 registered birds per report (31 in 2025).

"We at BirdLife Austria are curious to see how this trend will develop in the coming years. Since only long-term data series allow us to recognize how the winter birds are doing, it is important to pick up binoculars, counting sheets, and pens again in 2026 and count the birds in the garden, on the balcony, or in the park for one hour between January 3 and 6 and report them to us," requests Evelyn Hofer: "Don't be afraid of bird identification! Bird fans who have little experience with bird identification are also warmly invited to join in the counting." Initially, online bird quizzes can be used for practice. These quizzes are available in different levels of difficulty and offer both beginners and experienced participants an entertaining way to test their knowledge and learn new things.

Innovations in "Hour of Winter Birds"

For the first time, the "Hour of Winter Birds" will be complemented by a drawing competition for children. BirdLife Austria calls on all young nature lovers and drawing enthusiasts to draw their favorite bird in winter. The Austrian Post AG will turn the winning images into real stamps for the winners. Additionally, we are raffling a MY Junior 7x28 binoculars from Swarovski Optik among all submissions.

This year, we are once again looking for the best winter bird picture around the feeding house! You can easily submit your photos and short video clips online. The most beautiful photo or video will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience in the photo hide or an exciting Seewinkel safari at the St. Martins Therme & Lodge!

(Red)

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