How to Enjoy Birdsong this International Dawn Chorus Day
By Jill Dando News
RSPB have joined forces with RNID to encourage everyone to enjoy birdsong on Sunday 4 May.
International Dawn Chorus Day on Sunday 4 May marks a high point in the birding year and is a celebration of when birdsong is at its brightest and best. This year, RSPB have teamed up with RNID – the national charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus – to encourage everyone to get up early to enjoy nature’s symphony!
Be an early bird!
Waking up early to catch the dawn chorus and enjoying nature at first light can be an experience that boosts mental health and wellbeing. In 2021, a report by The Mental Health Foundation found that 70% of UK adults agreed being close to nature improves their mood, and almost half (49%) said nature helps them cope with stress.
The dawn chorus can be heard almost everywhere. Whether you go for a walk in nature or just cast your windows open wide, it’s great to start your day with nature.
Inspiring everyone to enjoy the Dawn Chorus
Working with RNID, the RSPB have put together some guidance that they hope will inspire even more people to enjoy this year’s International Dawn Chorus Day.
Crystal Rolfe, Director of Health at RNID, explains: “Many people with untreated hearing loss say that birdsong is one of the sounds they miss out on most – but is one of the greatest joys to return when they seek help. Because hearing loss often develops gradually, it can be hard to notice at first, which means people sometimes wait longer than they should to get the support they need.
“A quick and easy first-step is to take the free RNID online hearing check which gives you instant results and advice on what to do next. Many people who have taken the check then gone on to address hearing loss tell us they’re overjoyed to hear birds singing again. Taking action on your hearing health can be life-changing - not only for reconnecting with nature but also for overall wellbeing. People become less isolated and their ability to listen and communicate with friends, family and at work also improves.”
Four tips from the RNID and the RSPB to enjoy the dawn chorus
1. Take RNID’s free online hearing check
One in three adults in the UK has hearing loss, but because it develops gradually, it can be hard to recognise. Everyone should check their hearing regularly, just like you would your teeth or eyes, but if the dawn chorus seems quieter or you’re not hearing as many birds as before, it might be a sign to take action. RNID’s free online hearing check takes just three minutes and will tell you whether you should see a professional: rnid.org.uk/check
2. Use a bird identification app
Apps like Merlin or BirdNet can identify birds singing in your area – even if you can’t hear them yourself. The apps analyse birdsong in real time and tell you which birds are active around you.
3. Engage all your senses to experience the early morning
Getting up early to explore nature isn’t only about listening to birdsong. You may notice more wildlife in the quieter hours, be wowed by stunning water colour sunrises, or spot spiders’ webs bejewelled with dewdrops. Notice the fresh, almost green smell in the air as new buds and leaves unfurl. Even kick your shoes and socks off to feel the earth beneath your feet – it can have a powerful grounding effect to start your day.
4. Explore the latest hearing aid technology
If you’re concerned about your hearing, getting assessed by an audiologist is important. They may recommend being fitted with hearing aids which for many people can be life changing. Modern hearing aids feature the latest cutting-edge hearing technology and help people pick up bird song frequencies they may have been missing for years.
RNID recommends you check your hearing online every two years, and to see your GP if you’re concerned. Visit rnid.org.uk for more information.
The dawn chorus is a multi-sensory experience
Setting your alarm to wake in nature as the sun rises isn’t purely an audible experience. It can be a multi-sensory nature-wow moment for everyone. In the spring and summer nature feels more alive in the early hours as nocturnal creatures scuttle home, or as others get an early start on the day in the safety and peace of early morning.
STORY FROM RSPB - FOR MORE ABOUT WHAT THEY DO CLICK HERE
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