Swiss cities see a surprising surge in winter garden birds
A recent bird count across Switzerland has revealed a rise in winter visitors to urban gardens. Over the weekend, thousands of volunteers recorded nearly 136,000 birds in towns and cities. The survey highlights how native plants and natural spaces attract more species during the colder months.
Around 5,000 participants took part in the nationwide count. Among the most common birds spotted were sparrows, great tits, and crows. These species dominated the results, appearing in gardens across the country.
Juniper thrushes and chaffinches were also seen more often this winter. Their visits suggest that urban green spaces provide vital food and shelter. Jackdaws and bramblings appeared in higher numbers compared to last year, indicating a possible shift in their winter habits.
One standout finding was the great spotted woodpecker’s increased presence. This year, it was recorded in nearly a third of gardens—up from about 20% in 2023. The trend points to how well-adapted some woodland birds have become to city environments.
The survey results show how urban areas with native vegetation support a variety of bird species. More frequent sightings of certain birds may reflect changes in their winter behaviour. Organisers note that such counts help track long-term shifts in bird populations across Switzerland.
