Thousands of New Zealanders prepare to take part in the 19th New Zealand Garden Bird Survey, starting today.

The survey, New Zealand’s longest-running citizen science project, plays a vital role in tracking how native and introduced birds are faring across urban and rural environments.

Since its inception in 2007, over 77,000 surveys have been submitted nationwide, providing valuable data that reveals changes in bird populations over the past five and ten years.

Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research senior researcher Angela Brandt said the ongoing data collection reveals shifting trends for many species.

The latest State of NZ Garden Birds report showed both positive and concerning developments. While tūī and fantail populations continue to increase, and the decline in silvereye numbers has slowed, kererū are experiencing short-term declines nationally and across seven regions.

Brandt said the report highlighted a tapering-off of silvereye declines, with some regions even showing increases.

However, she pointed to emerging short-term declines for kererū and several introduced songbirds, underscoring the need for continued monitoring.

The survey benefits from high participation rates, with a record number of submissions in 2024.

Brandt encouraged more people across all regions to take part, noting that regional trends often differ from national patterns.

The survey offers an accessible way for people to engage with nature. In 2020, Manaaki Whenua senior researcher Gradon Diprose surveyed participants about their experience.

Many appreciated the opportunity to contribute to a large collective effort without the time commitment required by formal conservation groups.

Diprose said participants frequently reported feelings of wellbeing, curiosity and connection from spending time observing birds in their gardens.

To support learning and engagement, especially among younger generations, a bilingual lesson plan developed with the Science Learning Hub offers an educational framework that explores birdlife through a te ao Māori perspective.

Māori researcher Yvonne Taura said the curriculum aims to involve kura Māori in manu education, promoting kaitiakitanga and awareness of how urban development affects native birds.

Participants can join the survey by choosing any day between June 28 and July 6 to spend an hour observing birds in their garden or a local park.

They record the highest number of each species seen or heard at one time and submit their results online through the official NZ Garden Bird Survey website.

The survey continues to provide critical insight into New Zealand’s bird populations and inspires greater connection between people and their natural environment.