BTO create and publish a variety of important articles, papers, journals and other publications, independently and with our partners, for organisations, government and the private sector. Some of our publications (books, guides and atlases) are also available to buy in our online shop.
Annual report of the Seabird Monitoring Programme
Seabird Population Trends and Causes of Change: 1986–2023
This report presents the latest seabird population trends in breeding abundance and productivity using data from the Seabird Monitoring Programme (SMP).
The report documents changes in the abundance and productivity of breeding seabird species in Britain and Ireland from 1986 to 2023, and provides a detailed account of the 2021, 2022 and 2023 breeding seasons.

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Bird and bat species' global vulnerability to collision mortality with wind farms revealed through a trait-based assessment.
Author: Thaxter, C.B., Buchanan, G.M., Carr, J., Butchart, S.H.M., Newbold, T., Green, R.E., Tobias, J.A., Foden, W.B., O'Brien, S. & Pearce-Higgins, J.W.
Published: 2017
In a changing world, the development of green energy is more important than ever. One of the most well-developed and cheaply available options is wind power, but there is evidence that wind farms can also have a negative impact on biodiversity. This 2017 study, funded by the Cambridge Conservation Initiative and led by BTO, is the first to look at the global impact of wind farms on bird and bat populations.
13.09.17
Papers

Environmental correlates of breeding abundance and population change of Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata in Britain
Author: Franks, S.E., Douglas, D.J.T., Gillings, S. & Pearce-Higgins, J.W.
Published: 2017
Wader populations are declining worldwide, with causes often being linked to the loss and degradation of habitats, increased predation, and a changing climate. Here in the UK, we have seen dramatic declines in Curlew populations over recent decades, resulting in the species being proposed as the UK’s most important bird conservation priority. If we are to halt and reverse these declines then we first need to understand which threats this iconic species is facing.
01.09.17
Papers

The risk of extinction for birds in Great Britain
Author: Stanbury, A., Brown, A., Eaton, M., Aebischer, N., Gillings, S., Hearn, R., Noble, D., Stroud, D. & Gregory, R.
Published: 2017
The UK has lost seven species of breeding birds in the last 200 years. Conservation efforts to prevent this from happening to other species, both in the UK and around the world, are guided by species’ priorities lists, which are often informed by data on range, population size and the degree of decline or increase in numbers. These are the sorts of data that BTO collects through its core surveys.
01.09.17
Papers

Flight Lines: Tracking the wonders of bird migration
Author: Mike Toms
Published: 2017
This stunning new book brings together the latest research findings, delivered through an accessible and engaging narrative by the BTO's Mike Toms, with the wonderful artwork generated through the BTO/SWLA Flight Lines project. If you have an interest in our summer migrants, then you'll welcome this fantastic opportunity to discover their stories through art and the written word.
21.08.17
Books and guides
Bird Photographer of the Year 2017
Author:
Published: 2017
This beautiful book accompanies the photographic competition celebrating some of the best bird photography of the year.
19.08.17
Books and guides