Community science is a form of volunteer research that empowers anyone to contribute to scientific discovery in diverse fields. Birdwatching is an ideal gateway to this effort—hobbyists routinely gather valuable data without needing any specialized training. All it takes is a passion for exploration and a willingness to share your observations.
As a dedicated birder, you understand the importance of protecting nature. Read on to find out how your discoveries can fuel critical conservation initiatives.
Traditionally, science is associated with professionals and advanced degrees. However, there are only so many experts in the world, and they simply can’t monitor every species on their own. This is where community science steps in.
There are over 11,000 bird species worldwide and an estimated 50 billion birds in total (including domestic chickens). Even excluding domestic birds, the numbers are astonishing. Cataloguing such a vast array of species is an immense task that demands collective effort. While it isn’t necessary to identify every single bird, gathering approximate data on their numbers, locations, and behaviors is incredibly valuable. Every birdwatcher’s observation helps scientists build a clearer picture of both local and global bird populations.
The data collected by birdwatchers has a wide range of applications, primarily in two areas: applied science and conservation. Researchers use these observations to craft evidence-based studies on species status, climate trends, and environmental changes. These insights then inform conservation planning—from effective habitat management and species protection to shaping new environmental policies and laws.
There are numerous ways to support bird conservation through community science, and sharing your observations is a great way to begin with. Many birdwatchers already record their sightings, so, by using an app that offers open access to data, you can easily contribute to a larger pool of information.
One of the most popular apps for this purpose is eBird. Developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, eBird not only enhances your birdwatching experience but also makes your data available to researchers, students, and conservationists worldwide.
Beyond eBird, platforms exist for monitoring birds at feeders, safely counting nests, and tracking migration patterns. Local community projects also welcome contributions—whether you’re observing urban birds or supporting breeding efforts in the spring.
While community science requires little to no specialized equipment, certain tools can greatly enhance data collection. For example, thermal imaging devices are invaluable for tracking nocturnal and well-camouflaged birds. Communities aiming to improve data on species like owls and nightjars often rely on birders equipped with thermal devices.
Thermal imaging is also highly effective for nest monitoring. Since approaching nests too closely can disturb the birds, thermal vision enables birders to locate and observe nests from a safe distance, ensuring minimal disruption while gathering crucial data.
With a bit of exploration into community science, you’ll find a contribution method that perfectly suits your interests and schedule. Whether you commit to regular observations or make every ad-hoc sighting count, you have the potential to drive positive change on a global scale.