Germany Launches Annual 'Hour of Winter Birds' Citizen Science Event

Participants across the country are invited to observe and count birds from January 10 to 12, contributing to vital data on bird populations and environmental trends.

The 'Hour of Winter Birds,' organized by NABU and LBV, is Germany's largest participatory nature conservation event, running for the 15th year in a row.
Participants are encouraged to spend one hour observing and counting birds in gardens, parks, or at feeders, noting the highest number of each species seen simultaneously.
The data collected helps track long-term trends in bird populations, offering insights into the effects of climate change and habitat conditions on common bird species.
In 2024, over 130,000 people participated nationwide, with species like the house sparrow, great tit, and blue tit among the most frequently observed birds.
The event also aims to engage the public in nature conservation by raising awareness of local wildlife and encouraging protective actions.