Databases:
Birdata
Create a free account to access this database. Birdata is Australia’s largest wildlife database, and involves thousands of citizen scientists who contribute every year to collect and add data to the live dataset. Explore the map of Australia, which includes almost 900 species, where they are found, and how often they are spotted. In the Filter section, select ‘Hastings Birdwatchers’ as the Regional Group to see birds in our local area.
Birdpedia (Australia)
The Species database allows you to find out more about Australian bird species, which can be searched by name, location, bird colour, size, family, and more. The database also allows you to study birdcalls, and test yourself in identifying these. The database includes a helpful glossary, image gallery, and searchable sightings list.
Xeno-canto
This is a global database which collects recordings of bird calls from around the world. Collections are categorized by world areas, so search in the Australasia section to find relevant bird calls to Australia. You can upload your own recordings, and help to solve mystery recordings for a bit of fun.
Articles:
Chester, Q. (2011). Bird watcher’s guide to Australia. Australian Geographic Online.
This article describes the beginnings of the authors bird watching journey, and shows how a simple interest can spark a lifelong passion. The author has travelled around Australia to varied locations in order to observe birds, and describes these, as well as noting particular bird watching observatories and reserves.
Cundy, F., Hester, R., & McNally, M. (2021, Spring). SAVE INTERNATIONAL: Spike in Birdwatching is a Boon. Earth Island Journal, 36(1), 15.
This article describes the how the recent uptick in bird watchers globally, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has had a positive impact on conservation opportunities. As the world went into lockdown, many turned to bird watching to pass the time, and this has influenced a significant rise in sighting reports, and bird awareness.
Image reference: Cooper, W. T. (1993). Barn owl [Illustration]. State Library of New South Wales. https://collection.sl.nsw.gov.au/digital/lkglaXNG2AJw5