The Aussie backyard bird count is back for its third year between 17-23 October — with over 40,000 participants and over a million birds counted last year, this is becoming one of Australia's largest citizen science projects.

BirdLife Australia would like to invite you to make every bird count this spring and to join thousands of Australians who will be taking part in this nationwide bird survey. 

It’s easy to get involved. You can:

• Register your interest as a Counter on the website
• If you already have the Aussie Bird Count app on your phone or tablet, don’t delete it, an update will be available on1 October 
• If you don’t have the app, head to the Google Play or iTunes app store and download it for free, again an update will be available on 1 October
• You don't have to download the app to take part, you can also submit your counts through the website
• If you're a teacher, check out our lesson plans and get your students (or the whole school) involved! 
• Check out the Aussie Backyard Bird Count events being held right across Australia, there may be one in your local area
• Use #AussieBirdCount to join the conversation on social media — Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

There is still plenty of time to get to know your backyard birds before the count begins – why not set yourself a challenge? Get your friends and family together, head into the great outdoors and practise your bird ID skills — how many birds can you ID before the count and how many after?

If you have questions about the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, please head to our FAQ page.