Choose your winged representative for 2026: select the Bird of the Year!

In the heart of nature conservation, the Bird of the Year 2026 election is underway. Each candidate represents a unique challenge in our relationship with the natural world, and their campaign slogans echo the calls for change.

The Little Grebe, the smallest native diver, is advocating for the protection of wetlands with its slogan, "Dive Instead of Drying Up!". The Little Grebe prefers clean, natural waters and is a symbol of the importance of preserving our waterways.

The Little Owl, threatened by a lack of breeding sites due to building renovations, is urging for more nesting opportunities with its call, "Give Me Your Roof!". The Little Owl finds its home in barns and towers, and its plight underscores the need for consideration in urban development.

The Tawny Owl, known for its silent hunting, is emphasising the importance of species-rich habitats with its slogan, "Listen Up, Diversity On!". The Tawny Owl prefers old trees and structurally rich landscapes for nesting, highlighting the value of biodiversity.

The Blackbird, competing in the election, is advocating for nature-friendly gardens and urban green spaces with its slogan, "Berries instead of Concrete!". While it is not currently threatened, the Blackbird is affected by the Usutu virus, which spreads in hot summers.

The Pheasant, currently critically endangered, lived on meadows and fields and competed as Bird of the Year in 1991. Its campaign slogan, "For Fields Full of Life!", advocates for more sustainable agriculture with fewer pesticides, a crucial step towards conserving this iconic species.

The Bird of the Year 2026 election is not just about choosing a favourite bird. It's about highlighting central themes in nature conservation, from the need to protect wetlands to the importance of sustainable agriculture.

Michael Wenzel, the chairperson of the Landesschutzverband Bayerischer Vogel- und Naturschutzverein, is overseeing the election in Hilpoltstein. As we cast our votes, let's remember that each bird's message is a call for us to act in harmony with nature.

The Little Grebe, the Little Owl, the Tawny Owl, the Blackbird, and the Pheasant - their voices echo in the wind, urging us to listen, to act, and to protect the natural world.