The first meeting of 2026 offered the chance to learn about the upcomingBig Garden Birdwatch from the RSPB.
Liz explained that the Coventry and Warwickshire local group is one of the earliest groups founded in 1969 and conducts walks, outings and talks concerning birds and local wildlife. The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world's largest garden wildlife survey and a major citizen science project first conducted in 1979.

It has provided detailed data on how populations of birds have changed over the decades and Liz explained how changing building practices, land use and climate have affected those numbers.

The next Birdwatch is between the 23rd and 25th of January and requires an hour of time observing avian visitors to a limited patch (usually a garden) and submitting your counts. All the details are on the RSPB website.

Liz offered advice how to identify birds breaking the process down into a checklist of features such as size, shape, colour, legs, beaks, and behaviours. So even if your not an ornithologist it's possible along with the downloadable guidesheets to take part.

And maybe discover a calming and enjoyable activity.