Getting twitchy in the garden

RESIDENTS at a care home in West Drayton have their binoculars at the ready ahead of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

Care UK’s The Burroughs, in Mill Road, invited the community to take part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey on Wednesday January 23.

The team invited Hawkeye Falconry UK to join them for the occasion. As part of the session, residents and visitors had the opportunity to learn interesting facts about the creatures that were brought along and meet the friendly birds up close.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, which encourages people nationwide to count the birds in their gardens, allowing the charity to monitor trends and understand how different species are doing. Data from more than half a million people is then compared year-on-year to provide a ‘snapshot’ of bird numbers across the UK.

The Burroughs home manager Bozena Szczepaniak said: “It may be one of the first events of the year, but the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch is always a highlight for residents and team members alike.

“Spending time outdoors and connecting with the nature around us can prove to be beneficial for both the physical and mental wellbeing of older people, particularly those living with dementia.

“While it is a calming, peaceful activity, the distinctive sounds and vibrant colours of the garden are also great for providing sensory stimulation for residents.

“We’re delighted to have taken part in the world’s largest garden wildlife survey once again this year and to be playing our part in such an important study.

To find out more about the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and how you can get involved in the future, go to rspb.org.uk.