Wagga Deputy Mayor Georgie Davies and environmental education officer Christina Reid learn to use the Aussie Bird Count app. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.
Bird-watchers, it’s now your time to shine as Wagga Wagga City Council is looking to its residents to aid with the 2025 Aussie Bird Count.
Starting Monday 20 October, BirdLife Australia will begin its annual, week-long count where people are encouraged to sit in their backyards, parks or outdoor spaces for 20 minutes each day for a week and record the birds they see.
Recorded via the Aussie Bird Count App, results will be used to help scientists and professionals track the population of bird species, identify any anomalies and gather an understanding of where and when certain species of birds travel.
As part of this year’s count, Wagga Wagga City Council will be holding a drop-in session at the Marrambidya Wetland to support local residents with how to spot birds, navigate the app and contribute to the count.
Council’s environmental education officer Christina Reid said the drop-in session was designed to make it easy for anyone, regardless of experience, to get involved.
“You don’t need to be an expert bird-watcher to take part,” Ms Reid said.
“We’ll show you how to use the app, how to log your sightings, and give you some tips on identifying common species around Wagga Wagga.
“It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and contribute to national research at the same time.”
Wagga Deputy Mayor Georgie Davies said by taking part in the count residents could help highlight the diversity of birdlife in the Wagga Wagga area.
“Every bird sighting, no matter how common or how small, contributes valuable information,” Cr Davies said.
“Our local biodiversity is as integral to our community as we are, and it’s important we do all that we can to ensure the well-being of each species.
“By getting involved, you’re helping build a clearer picture of how our local bird species are faring and how we can better protect them into the future.”
Cr Davies revealed which bird she was most eager to find during next week’s count.
“I have a soft spot for the blue wren,” she said.
“I’ve never seen one in my own backyard before, but I have seen a lot around the town. So if I can spot a blue wren, I think it will be a successful count from my end.”
The official Aussie Bird Count will run from Monday 20 October to Sunday 26 October.
For more information about the Aussie Bird Count and the drop-in session, visit the City of Wagga Wagga website.
