Since its inception in 1979, the project has grown from a simple activity for junior members into a massive national effort involving over half a million people.
By gathering data on hundreds of thousands of gardens, the RSPB can build a vital, high-definition snapshot of how our bird populations are faring across the UK.
Participation is simple and open to everyone, whether you have a sprawling estate or a small urban balcony.
Between today (January 23) and Sunday (January 25), simply download the free guide and spend one hour tracking the birds that land in your chosen patch. Then, tell the RSPB what you saw (even if it’s nothing), by submitting your results either online or by post.
Even a big fat “zero” provides essential information to help with the survey - so long as you get your results back by the February 15 deadline.
Here are some of our favourite ornithological locations and what you could spot visiting our city this weekend.
1. RSPB St Aidan’s (LS26 8AL)
A former open-cast mine turned into a 1,000-acre wetland paradise. This is your best bet for seeing star species like the Bittern, Bearded Tit, and wintering Short-eared Owls. | RSPB Ben Andrew
2. Roundhay Park (LS8 2HH)
One of the largest city parks in Europe. The mix of the Upper Lake and the dense woodland around Waterloo Lake is fantastic for Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, and the noisy Rose-ringed Parakeets. | Steve Riding
3. Rodley Nature Reserve (LS13 1HP)
Built on a floodplain in the Kirkstall Valley, this is a flyway for migrating birds. It’s a stronghold for Kingfishers, Lapwings, and Snipe, with plenty of hides to keep you dry. | James Hardisty
4. Adel Dam (LS16 8AG)
This Yorkshire Wildlife Trust hidden gem is a tranquil woodland and wetland reserve. It's the top spot for Mandarin Ducks and seeing Kingfishers at very close range from the lake hide. | Ross Parry
5. Temple Newsam (LS15 0AE)
The vast estate woodlands are perfect for spotting classic British birds. Keep an eye out for Mistle Thrushes and Bullfinches, while Red Kites are almost guaranteed to be soaring above. | Google Photo: Google
6. Meanwood Valley Urban Farm (LS7 2LG)
Perfect for a family birdwatch. The feeders here attract huge numbers of Goldfinches, Long-tailed Tits, and Greenfinches, making it very easy for beginners to get a high count. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty