Some people might be hard pressed to think of more than 20 varieties of birds found on the Island, but according to Bermuda Audubon President Andrew Dobson there are more than 300.

Mr Dobson has been recording and photographing the Island’s birds for the past 24 years.

And in honour of the Bermuda Audubon Society’s 60th Anniversary, he will be giving an illustrated lecture on the astounding variety of birds that can be spotted in Bermuda.

The lecture ‘Bermuda’s Birds — You don’t know what you are missing’ will be happening at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on Thursday at 7.30pm.

A BUEI spokeswoman said attendees should leave with lots of new knowledge on the Island’s birds — and maybe even a new passion for bird watching.

She said: “Compared with islands to our south, Bermuda lays claim to having one of the largest bird lists in the region.

“For an area of only 21 sq miles and 20 breeding species, it might seem surprising that about 385 species have been recorded.”

“In this lecture, Mr Dobson will describe the gradual increase in species recorded since 1850,” she continued.

“Explanations are offered as to what has enabled the increase in species, including the publishing of field guides, availability of optical equipment, increase in citizen science and recent use of social media.

“The reasons for the relatively large number of species will be discussed, including Bermuda’s isolation from other land areas, its situation in relation to the Gulf Stream, migration routes and weather patterns experienced in the fall months.”

Tickets to the lecture are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. They can be purchased by calling 294-0204 or visiting the Oceans Gift Shop at BUEI.

Members with tickets are also entitled to have dinner at 20 percent off at the Harbourfront Restaurant before or after the lecture. To reserve a space, call 295-4207.