How to get your garden birdsong onto Scala Radio and be a Scala Joybringer
Make our day complete with uplifting birdsong from your garden and be one of our Scala Radio Joybringers.
Last updated 30th Mar 2020
We're all in need of a little joy at the moment, which is why we're bringing back Simon Mayo's Joybringer.
Yes, the much-loved feature is back, starting from Monday 30th, we'll be playing two pieces of uplifting music accompanied by the joyous sounds of birdsong.
We want your birdsong recordings
We want your help building up our birdsong collection - whilst being safe, of course.
So whether you're spending more time in the garden, or exercising and walking the dog in the park, help us spread some birdsong joy by sending us your recordings in 5 simple steps.
Step 1. Locate singing birds
Locating potential birds is the first step. Thankfully, you don't need to look very far. Whether you live in an urban or rural setting, it's easy. Spend some time in the garden, head to your local park (during your once-a-day exercise slot), or simply open your window.
Tip: 8-9am is a great time in the morning to hear birdsong during the RSPB's Breakfast Birdwatch hour. Not only will there be a higher chance of limited background noise, but you will hear a wider variety of birds.
Find out more about the RSPB's Breakfast Birdwatch hour here.
Step 2. Locate recording application
Once you have located a good spot, open your smartphone or recording device, and get as close to the birds as possible (without scaring them off).
Step 3. Place phone on a sturdy surface
Place your recording device on a stable surface, ideally away in a sheltered area and away from the wind. Point the microphone towards the subject, if you're using a smartphone and unsure where the microphone is, it will be located at the bottom of your phone.
Tip: Point the microphone away from background noise.
Step 4. Leave the birds to do their thing
This is the fun part: start recording; stay still and silent; and enjoy the sounds whilst recording.
After at least 2-3 minutes, stop recording.
Tip: Try not to move or talk while you are recording as this may be picked up in the recording.
Step 5. Send us your recordings
Finally, email your recordings to simon@scalaradio.co.uk telling us who you are and where you are, and we'll add them to our birdsong collection.
Bonus points if you know what you're recording too.
Listen back to when Simon Mayo spoke to Tony Whitehead, RSPB expert on wildlife sound recordings, for some handy tips!
Don't forget to send us some photos too!