Spring has arrived, and birds have begun nesting. This means it is time to head back into the field and continue monitoring species breeding in urban environments.

In recent years, an increasing number of volunteers have joined this effort, and together we have collected a substantial amount of observational data. This information helps us build a clearer picture of the bird species nesting in urban areas.

Our original plan was to create the Breeding Bird Atlas of Târgu Mureș and Odorheiu Secuiesc, but as the project has grown, Brașov also joined.

If you enjoy spending time in nature and can recognise common bird species, you can easily get involved in the project. It is enough to take part in a field survey and contribute with your observations.

Together, we can complete the picture of breeding birds in our cities and carry this project forward.

If you would like to join and participate in Târgu Mureș or Odorheiu Secuiesc, please contact Papp Edgár at edgar.papp@milvus.ro. For Brașov, please get in touch with Alina Ioniță at conservarea.naturii.ro@gmail.com.

What you need to know

The city area is divided into 500 x 500 metre squares, which observers will survey in full, twice per season, during the early morning hours, to record bird presence. All individuals of all species should be recorded, both visually and by sound, as you move through the square. Each square requires exactly one hour of survey time.

Each observer may choose their square(s) depending on their location and accessibility.

To ensure maximum coverage of the city, it is recommended, though not mandatory,  that each observer surveys as many squares as possible.

The two field visits must take place within the following periods:

• 10 April – 15 May (first survey)
• 16 May – 15 June (second survey)

Surveys begin at sunrise and continue until 10:00 a.m.

Data are uploaded using the OpenBioMaps app, via a dedicated form to which access will be granted later.

Required equipment includes a mobile phone (with the relevant applications installed) and a good-quality pair of binoculars to ensure accurate species identification.