Managers at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, one of the United Kingdom’s premier bird sanctuaries in East Yorkshire, report a substantial rise in younger visitors. Poppy Rummery, visitor manager, explains that this generation grasps the advantages of outdoor time and direct contact with nature.
Explosive Growth Among Young Bird Enthusiasts
Recent research reveals over 700,000 individuals aged 16 to 29—known as Gen Z—regularly engage in birdwatching across Britain, marking more than a tenfold increase since 2018. Numbers for this group jumped from about 61,000 to 724,000. Overall, birdwatching claims over four million participants in the country, up from 2.7 million eight years ago, reflecting a 47% climb among all ages between 2018 and 2026.
The study, drawn from responses by more than 24,000 people via analytics firm Fifty5Blue, positions birdwatching as the second-fastest growing hobby for Gen Z, trailing only jewellery making.
Young Voices on Nature’s Appeal
Emily Askew, a 28-year-old birdwatcher from Skegness, Lincolnshire, shares her perspective: “We seek connections to the natural world, and Gen Z cares deeply about environmental issues.” Askew posts photos and videos online, amassing over 20,000 Instagram followers. She frequents Gibraltar Point nature reserve near the Wash and notes a clear upswing in peers embracing nature.
Jess Painter, 24, serving on the RSPB Youth Council, observes heightened youth involvement, fueled by social media exchanges of knowledge and enthusiasm. “Birdwatching offers pure focus—no distractions. It brings peace, reconnection with nature, and self-reflection,” she says.
Low Barrier to Entry Boosts Popularity
Rummery emphasizes birdwatching’s accessibility: “No costly gear required; beginners need nothing special. Young people crave nature immersion, bird identification skills, and boosts to physical and mental well-being.”
Molly Brown, 29, a wildlife adviser, welcomes the trend: “Birdwatching sheds its niche, outdated image, drawing younger, diverse participants. Anyone can join, regardless of expertise. It motivates outdoor exploration, green space discovery, exercise, and mindful pauses—benefits for all.”
Amir Khan, doctor, broadcaster, and RSPB president, adds: “Birdsong, especially the vibrant dawn chorus, triggers serotonin release and elevates mood.”
