Community Bird Recording Course

Have you ever wondered where to start with identifying birds or wanted to know more about the techniques used to record and monitor them? Join us for a friendly, hands-on introduction to the fascinating world of UK birds.

Timings:

• Session 1: 4 October 2026, 9:45am – 1pm
• Session 2: 17 October 2026, 9:45am – 3pm
• Session 3: 18 October 2026, 9:45am – 3pm

This is a 3-session course with limited places. We expect the course to be popular, so please only book if you are able to attend all three sessions.

Who is the course for?

The 3-session course is suitable for adults who are complete beginners, or who have an existing interest in birds and would like to learn more about how to record and monitor them.

The course is aimed at people who help to look after outdoor spaces for wildlife and people (for example members of ‘Friends of’ groups, conservation volunteers, teachers, community leaders etc.). You will be asked questions about this when you book - please make sure you answer this fully. If you're not sure whether you meet these eligibility criteria, please reach out to us to discuss this.

What does the course cover?

• Learn some basic bird ID skills and gain confidence in identifying common species by sight and sound
• Discover why recording birds matters, and how this information supports conservation
• A chance to learn and practice different methods and techniques for recording birds
• How to carry out bird monitoring to track changes at your site over time

What to expect:

• A relaxed, welcoming course run by Chester Zoo and RECORD (the Local Environmental Records Centre for the Cheshire area)
• A mix of indoor learning and outdoor, hands-on sessions
• Plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with others who share your interests
• Free drinks and biscuits — plus lunch provided during sessions 2 and 3

Commitment:

• This is a 3-session course with limited places. We expect the course to be popular, so please only book if you are able to attend all three sessions.
• If you find that you are no longer able to come, please let us know as soon as possible so that your place can be offered to someone else.

Please note: The course is about UK birds. It is free to attend and you do not need to purchase a zoo entry ticket to take part. However please note that it does not include access to the main zoo area.