Cumberland Council is encouraging all residents to get involved in the annual Aussie Backyard Bird Count from Monday 22 October - Sunday 28 October.
The Aussie Backyard Bird Count (ABBC) enlists the keen eyes of everyday Australians to help build a nation-wide database of birds living in the community.
The data provides an annual snapshot of birdlife, allowing researchers to identify trends in bird populations and get an indication of the health of local environments.
“Birds are like a barometer for the health of local environments. If birds are happy, the environment must be healthy,” Mayor Greg Cummings said.
“Now in its fifth year, the Aussie Backyard Bird Count takes place for one week every October, as part of National Bird Week celebrations.
“Residents are invited to monitor birdlife for 20 minutes and submit their count via the Aussie Bird Count website or free Aussie Bird Count App.
“The Aussie Backyard Bird Count is an easy way to help monitor biodiversity and a great activity to do with the kids.
“You don’t even need a backyard to take part. Anyplace outdoors, from your local park to school yard, can count as your backyard for this activity.
“Biodiversity is an essential part of our environment. A healthy biodiversity system helps keep us and our environment healthy.
“Cumberland Council takes biodiversity seriously. We have worked with Granville Men’s Shed and Auburn Men’s Shed to build 60 bird houses which Council have installed in our parks and gardens. We have ordered another 40 bird houses which we will install in early 2019.
“Council’s program of free native plant giveaways is another way we promote biodiversity and ensure our feathered friends have both good food and sustainable habitats.”
Visit aussiebirdcount.org.au for more information or to download the free Aussie Bird Count app.
