Eagle eyes needed for new Devon Atlas of breeding birds

It has been 25 years since the last county-wide survey of birds in Devon, which resulted in the Devon Atlas of Breeding Birds written by HP Sitters in 1988. Since then a great deal has changed in the fortunes of birds in the county, but without a similarly rigorous survey, these changes are impossible to determine with any certainty.

For the last six years, Devon Birds has been compiling data on bird sightings in the county, to build an information base for the publication of an all-new Devon Atlas of breeding birds in 2014, and the Society is appealing for help from birders and bird watchers across Devon in its fact-finding process.

“The well-watched areas, mainly along the coast, have a good level of reporting,” explained Stella Beavan, Chairman of Devon Atlas committee.

“However, away from these areas, the records are distinctly patchy. We know that certain bird species are there and almost certainly breeding but, without a confirming sighting, the atlas has to publish a negative record, which is why we need people’s help.”

“We’re not looking for the exotic or rare species,” said Stella, “although these are of course welcome, but it’s the common species such as blue tits, wrens and tawny owls that often go unmentioned.”

Chairman of Devon Birds, George Harris explained why such an undertaking was necessary. “Devon Birds exists to promote the understanding, enjoyment and conservation of birds in the county,” said George. “Whilst collecting the data, writing the species accounts and publishing the atlas is a massive piece of work, it is the most effective way to create an up-to-date record of bird populations in Devon at the current time so is well worth the effort!”

Recording sightings and breeding sites has been made easy for potential participants by joining forces with the British Trust for Ornithology, making use of its website www.bto.org to allow people to submit ‘roving records’ which are independently verified. If you know of bird breeding in your local area, why not log on to the BTO website and see if you can ‘tick a box’ not already filled in?

If you would like help to pass on your records you can simply email to the following Devon Birds Atlas team members by sending an email to data.manager@devonbirds.org" data.manager@devonbirds.org and mark it for the attention of the following individuals, depending on the area you are referring to. For North Devon: Paul Madgett; South Devon: Julia Harris; East Devon: Roger Little.