British Trust for Ornithology

The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) is a leading independent research organization in the UK dedicated to the study of birds and their habitats. For over 90 years, the BTO has been at the forefront of ornithological research, relying on a vast network of volunteer birdwatchers and ringers to collect crucial data. This data is vital for understanding bird populations, migration trends, and the impact of environmental changes on avian species. Recently, the BTO's work has been highlighted in news reports concerning the arrival of exotic species, such as a western reef heron, in the UK for the first time, exciting birdwatchers. Furthermore, data collated by the BTO from bird ringers has indicated a concerning fall in migratory bird numbers, even following a warm spring and hot summer. This underscores the BTO's ongoing relevance in providing scientific evidence to inform conservation efforts and address the challenges facing bird populations in the UK and beyond.