Papers relating to the Oxford Bird Census

Collection

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Papers on the British Trust for Ornithology, the Edward Grey Institute, the University Committee for Ornithology and the Oxford Bird Census, and bird censuses and reports.

Dates

Creation: 1906-1962

Extent

0.41 Linear metres (3 boxes)

Language of Materials

English

Preferred Citation

Oxford, Bodleian Libraries [followed by shelfmark and folio or page reference, e.g. MS. 15508/1, fols. 1-2].

Please see our help page for further guidance on citing archives and manuscripts.

Full range of shelfmarks:

MSS. 15508/1-3

Collection ID (for staff)

CMD ID 15508

Additional Description

Abstract

Papers relating to the Oxford Bird Census.

Biographical / Historical

The Oxford Bird Census was founded in 1927 as a scheme of corporate observation, involving the work of undergraduates, Oxford residents and outside collaboration. The Census was at first fully voluntary, but it soon became clear that a more complete organisation would be needed. In 1930 funding was secured from the Empire Marketing Board, the Ministry of Agriculture and private sources, and Wilfred Backhouse Alexander was appointed its director. The Oxford Bird Census developed into the Oxford University Committee for Research in Economic Ornithology in 1931, and then into the Edward Grey Institute in 1938.