Rare Bird Alert, Reliable Bird News Services Since 1991
Welcome to the Rare Bird Alert website
Established in 1991 Rare Bird Alert is the longest running instant birdnews service in the UK. Our team of experienced and dedicated birders check and send reports as soon as they break, sixteen hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Ways to get our birdnews
We offer the most comprehensive range of birdnews services to suit all birders. If rarity hunting is your thing, just like to bird locally or only go birding occasionally we have a solution to meet your needs. If you would like any advice or help with any of our services please contact us today.
Pagers
Still the ultimate tool for birders in the field who don't want to miss news.
- Unrivalled reception works in many parts of the country where mobiles don't. Particularly good coverage in rural 'birding' areas
- Flexible change the areas you get news from whenever you want
- Packages to suit all birders
local pagers covering individual counties or entire coverage for the UK, you decide - TRY FOR FREE today
From
£134
per year
Online
- Live birdnews over 100,000 sightings per year, updated all day, every day
- Newsmaps so you can see where the birds are
- Photo Gallery share your photos of birds in Britain
- Previous Records fully searchable database of all the accepted rarities in Britain and Ireland, including maps, stats and photos
- Articles finders' accounts, identification papers, news stories and much more
Only
£59.99
per year
Phones
iPhone and Android App
- Alerts instant alerts on breaking news
- Browse the news search the news using quick links or build advanced filters
- Gallery latest UK bird photos
Text messages
- Instant text alerts to breaking news to any phone
- Great for occasional use
From
£59.99
per year
Latest article
New research reveals how the Common Cuckoo exploits the very behaviour meant to repel it - using the Gray Bushchat's alarm calls to find hidden nests. More here >
Through owl pellets, a vanishing marsupial species comes into clearer focus after decades of conservation obscurity. More here >
In early 2026, BirdLife South Africa will lead three expeditions to the island, offering birders and wildlife enthusiasts a rare chance to experience its natural riches firsthand. More here >
Captive Harpy Eagles show signs of social learning from human demonstrators, challenging assumptions about solitary raptor behaviour. More here >
3New study reveals the severely restricted and disconnected habitat of Colombia’s Antioquia Brushfinch - offering vital clues for its conservation. More here >
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enquiries: admin@rarebirdalert.co.uk or call 01603 457016