This October, Chimu Adventures is putting its conservation ethos into action—encouraging the wider travel industry to step away from their screens and look to the skies.
From 20–26 October, Chimu’s Polar and South America specialists will swap laptops for binoculars and take part in the Aussie Bird Count, the nation’s largest citizen science event organised by BirdLife Australia.
Each day, the team will spend 20 minutes observing and counting native birdlife, contributing their findings to help track the health and diversity of Australia’s bird populations. It’s a small act with a big impact, and one that anyone in travel can join.
Why every bird counts
Whether it’s a regal eagle or a curious cockatoo, every sighting matters. One in six Australian bird species now face the threat of extinction, and programs like the Aussie Bird Count help conservationists gather vital data about local ecosystems and population changes.
As a Certified B Corporation, Chimu Adventures has long championed responsible travel and environmental stewardship. The company offers paid volunteer leave for staff who participate in conservation projects like this one—allowing their team to give back in meaningful ways.
A passion for nature, shared
The initiative was inspired by Chimu’s Product Coordinator and resident birding enthusiast, Nicolas Cary, who encouraged his colleagues to get involved in what’s become a company-wide challenge.
“I love working with people who enjoy nature, and it’s a great stress relief for the pressures in life,” Cary said. “I wanted to help raise awareness for the amazing biodiversity of birds we have here in Australia.
“If time in nature helps our team’s well-being and aids in conservation efforts, then it’s a win-win.”
The challenge has already brought a sense of friendly competition to the team, with staff logging sightings of everything from rainbow lorikeets to kookaburras between client calls and meetings.
Citizen science—at work and at sea
Citizen science isn’t new to Chimu Adventures. It’s a key part of every small-ship Antarctic expedition the company operates, where travellers can take part in wildlife surveys, water sampling, and environmental monitoring alongside expert scientists.
These hands-on experiences help travellers connect deeply with the destinations they visit—learning how even small individual actions can contribute to global conservation.
By bringing that same ethos to their local communities, Chimu is showing that environmental awareness doesn’t have to start on an expedition—it can begin in your own backyard.
How to join the count
It’s not too late to join the flock. The Aussie Bird Count runs from 20–26 October 2025, and participation is simple: spend 20 minutes observing the birds around you—at home, in a park, or outside your office—and record your sightings via the Aussie Bird Count app or website.
Round up your colleagues, take a break outdoors, and contribute to an important national project that’s as good for the planet as it is for your well-being.
Register now and get counting!
Even small steps can make a big difference. So, if you’ve ever looked up and marvelled at a magpie, a cockatoo, or a pelican in flight, now’s the time to count it. The birds are waiting—and Chimu is leading the way.
For more information on getting involved in Bird Watch Australia or citizen science programs in Antarctica contact Chimu.
This article was brought to you by Chimu Adventures:
