Birds

See also:

5MBC field based training course

Bird identification online course

Five-minute bird counts

Five-minute bird counts (5MBCs) have been used in New Zealand since the 1970s. The method involves standing at a point for five minutes and recording how many birds are seen and heard and the species. The method is generally used for forest birds.

We describe the method and provide templates for collecting data. There are also training courses available.

Bird counting has been described as "a distressingly imprecise science". This method is one of the ways to count birds. It is relatively easy to do and needs few resources.


Find out more

Publications

Tree planting for attracting native birds

Threatened species classifications

Learn more

What bird? website
Photos, descriptions and bird calls of native and introduced birds in New Zealand

Formak website
Advice on how community groups and land owners can monitor the condition of New Zealand native forest ecosystems

Ornithological Society of New Zealand website
An independent site containing information on the distribution of birds in New Zealand

Contacts

Phone 0800 DOC HOTline (0800 362 468) 24 hour emergency number to report:

Sick or injured wildlife
Whale or dolphin strandings

Conservation for prosperity. Tiakina te taiao, kia puawai