Tuesday 1 March 2016

BTO House Martin Survey 2016

BTO House Martin Survey 2016
This survey will involve volunteers making regular observations at individual nests to collect information about nesting activity.
The 2016 nest study has different aims from 2015 count survey and so is NOT restricted to 'random' pre-selected survey squares. Instead, you can select your own study site anywhere where House Martins are nesting.
The study will be therefore ideal for observers who have nests on their home or place of work - including those who contributed to the 2009-13 survey.
How can I help?
We need volunteers who are able to observe one or more nests regularly through the whole breeding season, i.e. from April to September, or exceptionally into early October. You do not need to be able to climb ladders to look inside the nests. Your observations made from ground level (or from a window) will enable us to compare factors such as egg laying dates and breeding success at different sites across the UK

How often will I need to monitor?

Ideally, you need to be able to observe the nests for just a few minutes at least once a week to record any activity seen. If you are able to watch the nest more frequently, this will provide us with even more powerful information as we will be able to make more accurate estimates of the egg laying dates and the length of time before the young birds fledge.

Sign-up today to stay informed about the House Martin Nest Study in 2016 by visiting www.bto.org.uk