Search is on to find the 2025 Young Birder of the Year
The Martin Garner Spurn Young Birder of the Year returns for 2025 and celebrates young birders with passion, skill and curiosity at Britain’s most exciting migration hotspot
An event like no other for the next generation of birders
The search is on for the next Martin Garner Spurn Young Birder of the Year – a unique and inspiring event for budding birdwatchers aged 16 or under. Held each September during the thrilling Spurn Migration Festival (MigFest), this award is now firmly established as one of the most prestigious accolades a young British birder can receive.
Named in honour of the late Martin Garner – a much-loved birder, author and champion of pushing boundaries in identification – the award celebrates the same spirit that he embodied: curiosity, determination, and a joy in sharing the wonders of birds with others.
It’s an inclusive event that welcomes young birders of all backgrounds and abilities, and provides a truly unforgettable weekend at one of Britain’s most dynamic birding locations.
Spurn's iconic habitats put birding skills to the test
This year’s final takes place at Spurn Bird Observatory, during the MigFest weekend (12–14 September). Finalists will be taken to four diverse habitats across the Spurn Peninsula – estuary, farmland, sea and the open skies above – where they will be met by friendly judges who will assess their birding knowledge and fieldcraft.
From identifying visible migrants to answering questions on migration, taxonomy, and bird calls, the competition is as enriching as it is exciting.
A friendly and educational experience for all
There’s also a theory round with props and challenges, offering further opportunities for entrants to showcase their knowledge. Most importantly, it’s a fun, welcoming and educational experience – and every finalist comes away with new birding friends and fresh inspiration.
Prestigious prizes and free entry to MigFest
Two age categories are awarded, and prizes will be presented on the Saturday evening of MigFest. Entry to the festival is free for under-18s, and one parent or guardian of each finalist receives a complimentary weekend ticket too.
How to enter and key dates
Entries close at midnight on Sunday 20 July 2025, and to be eligible, entrants must be 16 or under on Saturday 13 September 2025. Previous winners in the same age category may not re-enter.
If you know a young birder with enthusiasm, promise and a love for migration magic, encourage them to enter – they could be walking in the footsteps of some of the UK’s most exciting up-and-coming ornithologists.
The application form is available online: bit.ly/MGSYB_2025
June 2025
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