9 September – The Top 10 finalists are perched and preening for the Bird of the Year title, each hoping your vote will crown them the 2026 champion of chirpers. These aren’t your average backyard sparrows, they’re feathered A-listers (and one rather overambitious contender) vying for that coveted BOTY title.
In one corner, we’ve got the soaring favourites, giving off serious “crown me” vibes. Those contenders are looking dangerously close to snatching the title, and at long last Black Harrier is getting its due, running third at the polling stations.
It’s a particularly close match between the majestic Bearded Vulture and the humble little Botha’s Lark. Right at the top of the tally, they’d both be worthy winners given the need to preserve these illustrious representatives of the avian caucus.
In the other corner we’re looking at some rather alarming stats. Although not quite at the bottom rung, it’s becoming clear that many voters don’t have preservation in mind at all when it comes to Hadeda Ibis. Nobody likes a tyrant that blows its own trumpet – although some other voting nations have proven this theory wrong. Perhaps that’s what inspired hadeda to enter the race, no doubt believing it could eclipse them all.
One particular disgruntled voter said that he spoiled his ballot. “Well I didn’t spoil it,” said Arthur Caruthers in exasperation. “The nominee himself flew over and pooed directly on my voting form!”
Strangely, that usually popular and powerful Crowned Eagle is not running at all well. Perhaps a coalition is on the cards, although pundits believe they would be rather strange nest partners, rather like a murder of crows.
Probably the most alarming tally is that of Southern Banded Snake Eagle. In critical need of votes, many of the less ornithologically aware pundits say they are put off by its association with snakes. And just barely ahead of the maligned eagle is Greater Honeyguide, losing out despite luring its voters with some very sweet deals.
Either way, theres’s still 20 days left and anything could happen. It’s basically an avian reality show, so cast your vote, break out the popcorn and bird seed, and keep your eye on proceedings!
