Bird identification online course
Bird counting has been described as “a distressingly imprecise science”. There are a myriad of techniques available but no method that can be universally applied to all species or situations.
One method, that has been used since the 1970s, is the five minute bird count (5MBC). We provide information on this method and links to a spreadsheet listing over 200 New Zealand studies using this technique.
DOC is currently evaluating the five minute bird count method and other bird monitoring methods. We are working on establishing a consistent set of standards for monitoring freshwater and terrestrial organisms. This work forms part of the National Inventory and Monitoring project (NIMS).
Developed over thirty years ago, five minute bird counts (5MBC) are used to survey and monitor birds.
Learn the history of the five minute bird count method and how the counts have helped with conservation efforts.
You can find information on more than 200 5MBC studies from all over New Zealand.
Find out how to do a five minute bird count and view a spreadsheet you can copy for entering your data.
Contact DOC if you have questions about five bird counts or to share information about your studies.
To learn more about monitoring and counting native birds in New Zealand view this further reading list.
What bird? websitePhotos, descriptions and bird calls of native and introduced birds in New Zealand
Formak websiteAdvice on how community groups and land owners can monitor the condition of New Zealand native forest ecosystems
Ornithological Society of New Zealand websiteAn independent site containing information on the distribution of birds in New Zealand
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