Luxembourg-based nature conservation NGO natur&ëmwelt has announced its 21st annual winter bird count, which will take place on the last weekend in January 2026.
The aim of the annual bird count is to estimate the population sizes of common species in urban areas and reveal whether populations are increasing or decreasing over the years. The census focuses on bird species found around houses and gardens.
According to natur&ëmwelt, the winter bird count is also an important public awareness campaign.
During the weekend from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 January 2026, the organisation is inviting the public to spend one hour observing and counting birds in their garden or balcony, to note all species spotted and to record how many individuals of each species they observe. The NGO also recalled that birds can be particularly well observed at bird feeders.
Participants can submit their observations via an online form, which includes counting instructions and a photo catalogue of the most common bird species, available on the natur&ëmwelt website: www.naturemweltasbl.lu/de/wantervullenzielung-2026/
The organisation has also invited school classes to take part in the campaign. Teachers can request participation forms and teaching materials from the organisation and contact its office for further information, lesson planning suggestions and to order additional flyers via tel.: 29 04 04-1 or via email: secretariat@naturemwelt.lu.
During the 2025 winter bird count weekend, the great tit was spotted in 85% of Luxembourg gardens, making it the most common species. Close behind were the blue tit and the blackbird, both observed in 81% of gardens. Other common species included the robin (80%) and the house sparrow (75%).
After this year’s campaign, the organisers will randomly select ten winners from the participants. The deadline to enter the prize draw is Monday 9 February 2026.
