The Rise of Birdwatching Among Gen Z
In a world where digital devices dominate daily life, a surprising trend is emerging among young people. A new study has revealed that Generation Z is increasingly turning their attention away from screens and towards the skies, showing a growing interest in birdwatching.
The data shows a remarkable 10-fold increase in 16 to 29-year-olds regularly engaging in birdwatching since 2018, which equates to a 1088 per cent rise. This surge has led to almost three-quarters of a million Gen Z individuals across Great Britain now enjoying this hobby. With numbers continuing to rise, birdwatching has become one of the fastest-growing interests among young people, second only to jewellery making.
This trend isn’t limited to Gen Z. There has also been a 216 per cent increase in the number of Millennials and a 66 per cent increase in Gen X birdwatchers. Molly Brown, a wildlife expert at the RSPB, commented on the shift: “People of all ages are discovering the joy that connecting with nature brings. It’s brilliant to see so many young people choosing to get into birdwatching.”
She added: “This new research shows that watching birds is no longer a niche or old-fashioned pastime and is attracting a younger, more diverse crowd.”
Benefits of Birdwatching
Research has shown that listening to birdsong can provide numerous benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. It may even help slow age-related cognitive decline. Jess Painter, a 24-year-old member of the RSPB’s Youth Council, shared her perspective: “I’ve noticed more and more young people birdwatching – and I love how this is shifting it into a hobby that’s more accessible, less jargonistic and cool.”
She continued: “On social media in particular, people are redefining what it is to be into birdwatching, sharing knowledge and passion. When I’m watching birds, I’m not thinking about anything else – it’s a moment of peace and a way to reconnect with nature, and with myself.”
Social media platforms like TikTok have become hubs for young people to share their birdwatching experiences. One post by @beththebirdnerd reads: “My therapy isn’t expensive…it’s just me, a walk and whatever birds I can find.” Beth revealed she has driven up to four hours in search of a single bird and even hosts bird watching retreats for women, which include skincare sessions.
Common Garden Birds in the UK
Here are the most common garden birds in the UK, based on average bird count per garden:
- House Sparrow: 3.57
- Blue Tit: 3.12
- Starling: 2.23
- Woodpigeon: 2.21
- Blackbird: 1.68
- Great Tit: 1.58
- Robin: 1.50
- Goldfinch: 1.38
- Magpie: 1.32
- Long-tailed Tit: 1.19
Source: RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2026
Another TikTok user said: “Never thought I’d enjoy bird watching so much.” Tips for beginners include using your ears before your eyes, letting birds come to you, and starting small and local. On Reddit, one person shared: “I’ve gone from absolutely no interest in birds to running round recording them like they’re Pokémon. It’s so satisfying and interesting.”
The Role of Technology
The popularity of birdwatching has also been boosted by smartphone apps that allow novice birdwatchers to identify species. Dr Amir Khan, NHS and TV doctor and President of the RSPB, explained: “As a GP, I talk to many of my patients about what can happen when we go outside, into our gardens, local green spaces, parks or nature reserves. It helps lift our mood, actively stimulating serotonin, a brain chemical which makes us feel happier.”
He added: “Hearing birdsong, especially during the dawn chorus when they’re at their loudest and most beautiful, can produce more serotonin and make us feel good. For millennia, humans have evolved alongside nature, so it’s inherent that we want to connect with it.”
International Dawn Chorus Day
The new findings have been released ahead of International Dawn Chorus Day, which takes place on Sunday. This event marks the moment each spring when the symphony of early morning song reaches its peak, performed by birds looking for love or defending their patch.
Despite warnings that the Dawn Chorus is getting quieter due to plummeting bird numbers, the RSPB is still encouraging people to set their alarms a little earlier than usual to listen in to the joy of birdsong at dawn.
Tips for Enjoying the Dawn Chorus
On Sunday, 3rd May, the RSPB is encouraging people to set their alarms 45 minutes before dawn and step outside, or open a window, and soak it in. Here are some tips:
- Set your alarm clock. In the UK, the dawn chorus is at its peak just before and just after sunrise, so ideally, you would be sitting still with a cup of something warm around 5am.
- Check the weather. Still, dry mornings are the best to hear the chorus in all its glory.
- Wrap up warm, even in May, it can still be chilly before the sun rises.
- If it’s your first dawn chorus experience, just sit back and let the symphony of sound wash over you.
- A walk with a guide is also a great idea to get the most from the experience.
- If you’re not an early riser, many species also sing on an evening, as dusk falls. It’s not quite as spectacular as the morning chorus, but still well worth a listen.
Source: RSPB
