In February each year, hundreds of people all around the UK go out and walk along their local beaches looking out for dead seabirds. This may seem somewhat macabre pastime, but what they are doing is taking part in the National Beached Bird Survey (BBS). The r
esults of this national survey are used in conjunction with those from
other European countries to document trends in chronic marine oil pollution
and to promote adequate methods of controlling illegal oil discharge to
help reduce seabird mortality. The project has been running since the 1970s, so it has an impressive data set, but the RSPB (who coordinate the project) are always looking for folk to help out on their local stretch of coast. So if you would like to add a purpose to your beach walk, whilst also feeling like you are doing your bit to help with seabird conservation then check out this link then why not consider joining in. Go to https://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/projects/details/203916-national-beached-bird-survey for more information. I have walked 4 out of my 6 beaches so far, and am pleased to say that I have found no oiled birds.
