australian bird of the year 2025 winner

Tawny Frogmouth Takes Flight: Crowned Australian Bird of the Year 2025

The votes are in, the feathers have settled, and Australia has spoken! The Tawny Frogmouth has officially been crowned the Guardian Australia/BirdLife Australia Bird of the Year 2025. This win marks a significant moment for the often-misunderstood and undeniably charismatic nocturnal bird, proving its popularity amongst Aussie bird enthusiasts.

Frogmouth Frenzy: Australia Chooses its Champion

After a fierce competition featuring a diverse range of feathered contenders, the Tawny Frogmouth soared to victory, finally claiming the top spot after being a runner-up in the previous three biennial polls. The announcement, eagerly anticipated by bird lovers across the nation, was broadcast on a live stream hosted by The Guardian on Thursday, October 16th, 2025. The win highlights the growing public interest in conservation efforts and the importance of community engagement in protecting Australia's unique birdlife.

Recent Updates: From Nominees to Number One

The 2025 Bird of the Year competition, a collaborative effort between The Guardian Australia and BirdLife Australia, commenced with nominations from the public. The initial list of 50 birds was whittled down to a top 10, setting the stage for a final showdown.

Timeline of Key Events:

• Early 2025: Nominations open for the Australian Bird of the Year 2025.
• October 16, 2025: The Guardian Australia hosts a live stream to announce the winner.
• October 16, 2025: The Tawny Frogmouth is officially announced as the Australian Bird of the Year 2025.

The Guardian's coverage leading up to the announcement emphasized the public's role in the competition, highlighting the impact of citizen science and community involvement in conservation.

The Tawny Frogmouth: More Than Just a Funny Face

Often mistaken for owls, Tawny Frogmouths are actually more closely related to nightjars. These masters of camouflage are a common sight across Australia, blending seamlessly into tree branches with their mottled grey plumage. Their wide, frog-like mouths are perfectly adapted for catching insects, and their nocturnal habits add to their mystique.

But why all the buzz around this particular bird?

• Relatability: Their somewhat grumpy facial expression and tendency to perch motionless for hours have made them an internet sensation, endearing them to a broad audience.
• Misunderstood Beauty: Unlike some of the flashier, more colourful contenders, the Tawny Frogmouth's understated beauty and unique characteristics have resonated with voters.
• Conservation Awareness: The Bird of the Year competition raises awareness about the challenges facing Australian birds, and the Tawny Frogmouth's win could help shine a light on the importance of habitat preservation and responsible pet ownership (to prevent predation by domestic animals).

Bird of the Year: A Cultural Phenomenon

The Australian Bird of the Year competition has become a cultural touchstone, evolving beyond a simple popularity contest into a platform for raising awareness about conservation and citizen science. BirdLife Australia, a key partner in the initiative, uses the competition to engage the public in bird conservation efforts.

Traditionally, conservation relied heavily on scientific research and government policies. However, the Australian Bird of the Year competition, along with similar projects worldwide, demonstrates the power of public participation in protecting our natural heritage. The competition encourages Australians to connect with their native birdlife, fostering a sense of stewardship and responsibility.

The event also highlights the diverse range of threats facing Australian birds, from habitat loss and climate change to introduced predators and human disturbance. By shining a spotlight on these challenges, the competition inspires action and encourages individuals to make informed choices that benefit bird populations.

Immediate Effects: A Boost for Bird Conservation

The Tawny Frogmouth's victory is expected to have several positive effects:

• Increased Awareness: The win will undoubtedly raise the profile of the Tawny Frogmouth and its conservation needs.
• Community Engagement: The competition encourages people to learn more about Australian birds and get involved in conservation efforts.
• Funding Opportunities: Increased awareness can lead to greater support for bird conservation programs.

The competition is more than just a fun event; it is a powerful tool for mobilizing public support for conservation. The Australian Bird of the Year competition demonstrates that everyone can play a role in protecting Australia's unique birdlife, from voting for their favourite species to participating in citizen science projects.

Future Outlook: Protecting Our Feathered Friends

Looking ahead, the future of Australian birds depends on continued conservation efforts and increased public awareness. The Bird of the Year competition plays a vital role in this process, engaging people in a fun and accessible way.

Potential Outcomes:

• Increased Conservation Funding: The win could lead to increased funding for research and conservation projects focused on Tawny Frogmouths and other threatened bird species.
• Habitat Preservation: Greater awareness of the importance of habitat preservation could lead to stronger environmental protections and more sustainable land management practices.
• Citizen Science Initiatives: The competition could inspire more people to participate in citizen science projects, such as bird surveys and monitoring programs.

Strategic Implications:

• Government Policy: The results of the competition can inform government policy and decision-making related to bird conservation.
• Community Action: The competition can empower local communities to take action to protect their local bird populations.
• Education and Outreach: The competition provides a platform for educating the public about the importance of bird conservation and the threats facing Australian birds.

The Australian Bird of the Year competition is a testament to the power of community engagement in protecting our natural heritage. By celebrating our feathered friends and raising awareness about the challenges they face, we can ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the beauty and diversity of Australian birdlife.

While the Tawny Frogmouth's victory is a cause for celebration, it is also a reminder that many Australian birds are facing serious threats. Continued conservation efforts and increased public awareness are essential to ensuring their survival.

So, let's raise a glass (or a bird feeder) to the Tawny Frogmouth, the Australian Bird of the Year 2025! May its reign be long and prosperous, and may it inspire us all to do our part to protect Australia's incredible birdlife.