Read examples of work where BTO volunteers and research scientists are able to address conservation and research challenges to deliver impactful results. Some studies also illustrate the value of public participation in science and the opportunities to engage new audiences with our work.
Featured article
Protected areas and birds
Protected areas are often cited as vital for slowing and reversing biodiversity loss. But how effective are these areas for bird conservation? BTO research investigates.
BTO’s volunteers and research staff monitor change in the environment, delivering the information used to plan and assess conservation action, and informing decision-making processes for the benefits of society, wildlife and the natural world.
Mike Toms, BTO Head of Communications
Supporting Curlew conservation
Recent BTO work focuses on understanding the variation in Curlew and other UK wader populations so that we can help suggest actions to conserve them.
Working together for seabirds
BTO work supports effective monitoring of our seabirds and aims to provide opportunities for a new generation of seabird surveyors.
Birds and climate change
BTO science contributes to our understanding of future scenarios, and informing policies and conservation management strategies to help species adapt.
Climate change and seabirds
The UK is home to internationally important breeding seabird populations. How vulnerable are these to a changing climate?
BTO Data Reports: a case study
Our reports provide rigorous scientific information to inform Environmental Impact Assessments in the UK.
Making the most of BirdTrack
We are producing useful summaries for bird reports using data from the millions of annual BirdTrack records.
Art, culture and science
Discover how art and the written word are increasing engagement with migrant birds and the challenges that they face.
Garden and urban research
The value of a complete quarter-century of weekly garden bird observations from the length and breadth of the country, collected through the Garden BirdWatch scheme.
Agri-environment schemes
BTO research is helping to shape the modern farmed landscape by informing agri-environment schemes.
Fisheries management
Understanding the relationship between wintering waterbirds and shellfish fisheries is key to sustaining both into the future.
