Bird Shuffle at Feeders. The Order of the Most Common Winter Visitors Has Changed for the First Time
A recent birdwatching event in the Czech Republic revealed surprising shifts in the rankings of winter bird visitors at feeders, with the blackbird achieving its highest-ever position.
During a one-hour birdwatching event, winter gardens across the Czech Republic transformed into the nation’s largest bird observatory, as nearly 40,000 participants recorded sightings. The great tit retained its title as the most frequently seen bird species at feeders, appearing in 89.5% of observations made during the event. However, the blackbird made history this year by climbing to the second position, marking the first time it has ranked so highly since the Birdwatching event began in 2019.
This year's event, organized by the Czech Ornithological Society, set a record with over 800,000 birds logged across the country, the highest tally in the eight-year history of the project. The significant participation demonstrated a rising interest in birdwatching and conservation among the Czech populace, as many engaged actively in observing avian visitors during the cold winter months. This record participation not only emphasizes the importance of public engagement in wildlife observation but also highlights changes in local bird populations.
The continued dominance of the great tit may suggest stability in its population, while the rise of the blackbird could indicate shifts in habitat availability or feeding patterns among local bird species. Such changes may reflect broader environmental trends, drawing attention to the necessity for ongoing study and conservation efforts in Czechia's avian ecosystems. As the Birdwatching event continues to grow, it serves as an invaluable platform for both educating the public about native bird species and monitoring their status.