Express & Star

RSPB Big Bird Watch coming to Sandwell

Residents are being invited to get their binoculars out and take part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch in Sandwell next weekend.

Published
Volunteer Jenni Wilding gets ready for RSPB Sandwell Valley's Big Garden Birdwatch

The national event will make its way to RSPB Sandwell Valley, off Tanhouse Avenue in Great Barr, on January 25 and 26.

A spokesman for the Sandwell event said: “How many birds can you count in one hour? Join us at the visitor centre and take part in the RSPB Big Sandwell Valley Birdwatch.

“Binoculars and fun bird activities will be available for younger participants. Our team will be on hand to help you discover more about the birds you get in your garden.”

Nationally, up to half a million people are expected to watch and count their garden birds. The public is asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in their garden or local green space, then send their results to the RSPB.

Rebecca Munro, RSPB director of communications, said: “With nearly half a million people now regularly taking part, coupled with 40 years’ worth of data, Big Garden Birdwatch allows us to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are doing.

“With results from so many gardens, we are able to create a ‘snapshot’ of bird numbers across the UK”.

The free event runs at RSPB Sandwell Valley between 11am and 3pm. For a free Big Garden Birdwatch pack, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch