Over a thousand households across Ireland are taking part in a survey to monitor garden birds.
From the start of December members of the public have the opportunity to participate in a science project from the comfort of their own homes.
The Birdwatch Ireland Irish Garden Bird Survey is free, open to everyone, and runs from December until February.
Frank and Pauline Doyle have taken part in every survey over the course of its sixteen year history. The combination of enjoying nature and science appeals to them, and it is also easy to participate.
When I’m cooking I’m always watching.
Those taking part note the type and number of birds in their gardens, and the data gathered helps conservationists keep track of the fortunes of garden birds across Ireland.
Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland explains, they have been able to measure a decline in some visitors to Irish gardens, such as the greenfinch. Overall, the results of the survey have mainly been positive.
Traditional Irish bird species are holding their own.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 2 January 2010. The reporter is Philip Bromwell.
