Are you ready for Digital Ornithology?

In September 2011 the UK introduced High Resolution Digital Birdlife, meaning that for the first time ever twitchers could enjoy looking at high definition birds in 12 billion colours*. Birdwatchers can now enjoy more birds in more detail than ever before. Wrens! Chaffinches! House martins! More than 200,000 species are now available in dazzling clarity^†.

So what happens now?

HD-ready binoculars and digital bird feeders have been available for some time and if you're already using them then you need do nothing. But if you still have traditional analogue gear, it's time to upgrade. Next month all the UK's analogue birds will be switched off, meaning you'll miss out on a wide range of sparrows, tits and ducks.

Where can I get help?

Most high street birdwatching shops will be able to supply the correct equipment. If you live in one of the few areas of the country which, weirdly, doesn't have a dedicated high street birdwatching shop, you can get help and advice at www.gov.uk/birds. There you will find handy tips, guides, expert articles and recommendations to help you continue to enjoy watching all the birds you want, morning, noon and night.

 

*There aren't that many colours.

^†There aren't that many birds.