Introduction

Winter is a critical time for many species and understanding how birds use our landscapes during this season is essential for effective conservation. This survey aims to collect up-to-date information on the numbers and distribution of wintering birds in Kent and across the UK. In so doing the survey can help to ensure that land management practices are tailored to better support these species.

Survey Overview: How It Works & Who Can Take Part

The Winter Bird Survey (WINBS) will run across winter 2025/26. It is a repeat of the English Winter Bird Survey (2018/19), aiming to gather comparable data.

The survey uses the straightforward, proven methodology based on the BTO/JNCC/RSPB Breeding Bird Survey (BBS), but adapted for winter bird counts. This means:

• It involves counting all the birds that are seen or heard while walking a set route of two 1-km lines across the survey square.
• All volunteers receive guidance and support on survey methodology, data entry and visit planning.
• Prior experience with BBS is helpful but not essential.

Current BBS volunteers were encouraged to join, and many in Kent have already signed up for WINBS, though the survey is open to everyone—whether you are an experienced bird surveyor or new to structured surveys. However, BBS volunteers are assured that their BBS allocation and participation will not be affected by the Winter Bird Survey.

If you can confidently identify common species you are welcome to participate in the Winter Bird Survey. Remaining squares in Kent are available to request on the Winter Bird Survey square-request map.  You will be able to make a request against a 10-km square, and the Regional Organiser or BTO Head Office will suggest appropriate squares within that area.

Visit Schedule: Key Survey Dates

Volunteers are asked to visit their chosen square(s) on the following dates:

• Visit 1: in late September or October 2025
• Visit 2: in December 2025
• Visit 3: in January 2026
• Visit 4: in February 2026

Note: November is intentionally left out to match previous surveys. Each visit should be at least three weeks apart.

The ideal requirement was for all four visits to be carried out, nevertheless, participation is welcome from volunteers who can only make two or three visits.

If you didn't manage a first (autumn) visit, then don't worry. Whilst the autumn visit was listed as one of the 'compulsory' visits, the BTO would still love to have 'winter only' data from you; there is much we can learn from those data.

Volunteer Guidance

BTO staff or your regional organiser will contact registered volunteers with more details and support. To sign up or to find out more, please visit the Winter Bird Survey webpage and/or contact:-

Bob Knight – BBS/WINBS Regional Organiser Kent

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We look forward to your involvement in this important survey!