As part of National Bird Week from 18-24 October, Shellharbour City Council and BirdLife Australia are calling on local residents to get involved in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count. 

BirdLife Australia is the largest bird conservation organisation in the nation. It aims to protect bird species through capturing a better understanding of the birds that live in Australian backyards. 

The Backyard Bird Count involves residents spending 20 minutes in their backyard or a local outdoor space such as a beach, park or bushland to count and record the birds they see.  

There are a range of places in Shellharbour for spotting many different kinds of birds, such as Blackbutt Forest, Bass Point and along the shore of Lake Illawarra. 

Shellharbour City Council have a Bird’s of Lake Illawarra brochure available on its website to assist in the identification of local birds. 

Results can be uploaded at aussiebirdcount.org.au or through the free Aussie Bird Count app. 

The Aussie Bird Count app has a helpful field guide function for identifying birds based on their size, colour and features.  

Last year in Shellharbour, 13,338 birds were observed during the Aussie Backyard Bird Count with 132 different bird species recorded. 

The birds most frequently observed include Rainbow Lorikeets, Silver Gulls and House Sparrows. 

Shellharbour City Mayor, Councillor Marianne Saliba, said the Aussie Backyard Bird Count was a wonderful opportunity to explore the local area and contribute to the conservation of the natural environment. 

“This annual event is becoming more popular each year and I know that our community is passionate about protecting our local wildlife.” 

For more information https://www.aussiebirdcount.org.au    

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008