How to join the Aussie Bird Count this October

There are more reasons than ever to appreciate and keep an eye on our feathered friends. Join the Aussie Bird Count this October.

How to get involved

Hop into your backyard or local park next week to help record a unique snapshot of our birdlife. Download the app and get ready to count from Monday 19 to Sunday 25 October. 

Three of our favourite local parks for bird watching are:

• Maranoa Botanic Gardens in Balwyn
• Nettleton Park in Glen Iris
• Willsmere Billabong in Kew East.

Join our guided bird walk

Book your spot at a special guided walk at Maranoa Botanic Gardens hosted by Dr Jacinta Humphrey on Thursday 22 October.

For more information and to book, visit the link below.

Why it’s important

By counting and recording the birds you see in a 20-minute period you’ll be joining a huge citizen-science data project alongside tens of thousands of Australians. 

Given the current threat of H5 bird flu, you can play an important role when bird watching by looking out for signs and reporting sick or dead birds. 

Responding to bird flu

H5 bird flu is in wild birds in Victoria and other states. It has not yet been detected in Boroondara. It’s expected to be an ongoing wildlife disease with long-term impacts. The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low. 

Community reports play an important role in Victoria's animal disease surveillance system and support early detection. 

We understand this can be distressing, but every report helps protect Victoria's wildlife.

• If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife: 
• Avoid direct contact.
• Record the exact location and what you observed.
• Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease hotline on 1800 675 888, or use Agriculture Victoria’s online form.

Find out more on our Responding to bird flu page.