Countless nature lovers took part in the Austrian wild bird counting participation campaign in December 2023. Fressnapf and the Austrian Association for Nature Conservation now present the final result of the major project.
Fressnapf and the Austrian Association for Nature Conservation are particularly pleased with the large number of participants in the December campaign ‘Wild birds at the feeding ground’. Hobby researchers from all over Austria reported a total of more than 115 different bird species from the winter habitat area. For comparison: in 2022 there were just over 100 species. In addition, 65 percent more observation reports were generated on the naturObservation.at platform.
“Top 10” winter birds at the feeding stations
Also in 2023, the great tit became the most reported wild bird. Followed by blackbird, blue tit, great spotted woodpecker, finch, robin, nuthatch, jay, goldfinch and tree sparrow.
Each of these species contributed in its own way to the vibrant community of birds that gathered on the feeding grounds during the cold winter months. Particularly notable for ornithologists was the striking increase in jay sightings.
The increase raises the question of what could be behind this increase. More jays may have moved to the region in search of cheap food sources. These intelligent birds are known for quickly adapting to changes in their environment and exploiting new resources.
Master Adebar flies to Austria
The white stork, normally known for its long journeys to warmer regions, is also surprised by a stay in Austria. This atypical behavior may be due to milder winter conditions, changes in food availability, or other environmental factors. Several chiffchaffs, small songbirds, were also reported by the volunteer citizen scientists.
The data collected not only provides a fascinating insight into the dynamics of the native bird world, but also enables better research and protection of these feathered residents in the future.
Source: Krone
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