The rainbow lorikeet has been confirmed as the most prevalent bird species in Australia, as revealed by the nation’s largest citizen science initiative, the 2024 Aussie Bird Count. Organised by BirdLife Australia, the event, which took place over a week in October, recorded an impressive 4.1 million bird observations contributed by over 57,000 participants.
Notably, the rainbow lorikeet, with its vibrant feathers, has maintained its top spot since the inception of the Aussie Bird Count in 2014. The accompanying top four list of most-sighted birds has remained consistent throughout the decade, showcasing the popularity of these avian species among birdwatchers. Following the rainbow lorikeet, the noisy miner ranked second, while the Australian magpie secured third place. Interestingly, the magpie was spotted by the most participants, reinforcing its status as Australia’s “most familiar bird,” as highlighted by Sean Dooley, BirdLife Australia’s Senior Public Affairs Advisor.
The survey demonstrated that each state has its own unique top three birds, illustrating the diverse identity of avifauna across Australia. This reinforces the importance of birds within each region’s character, as noted by BirdLife Australia. Furthermore, the data collected is being utilised to guide conservation efforts aimed at eradicating bird extinctions by 2032 and reversing population declines by 2050.
The ten most frequently counted birds across Australia include:
1. Rainbow lorikeet
2. Noisy miner
3. Australian magpie
4. Sulphur-crested cockatoo
5. Welcome swallow
6. Galah
7. Silver gull
8. White ibis
9. House sparrow
10. Little corella
BirdLife Australia emphasises that while birdwatching can be an enjoyable activity, it also serves as a vital indicator of our environmental health. The initiative fosters a deeper connection to local wildlife, encouraging a growing interest in bird observation as a fulfilling pastime that generates crucial data for conservation.
Looking ahead, the next Aussie Bird Count is scheduled for October 20-26, 2025. In the meantime, BirdLife Australia offers opportunities for enthusiastic participants to engage in ongoing bird monitoring programs such as Birds in Backyards and Birdata.