Binoculars at the ready for big event
BIRD fans are in a flap as they prepare to take part in one of the world’s largest wildlife surveys.
The Macclesfield branch of the RSPB will be a part of the charity’s national Big Garden Birdwatch, which runs from January 25 to 27.
And it is inviting people to also get involved by spending an hour during this period watching and counting birds in their garden or nearby green space.
There is also a communal Big Garden Birdwatch at Macclesfield West Park on Saturday, January 25, from 10am to midday where there will be an expert to give hints and tips.
Ahead of this event the Macclesfield group will hold two talks to equip people with the information to take part. They are on Thursday, January 16, at the Tunnicliffe Exhibition, Macclesfield Heritage Centre, on Roe Street.
The first is familythemed and will be an introduction to the most common garden birds with pictures, songs and activities from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.
From 7.30pm to 8.30pm there will be a talk for adults detailing the lives and habits of garden birds.
Tina Hanak, from Macclesfield RSPB Wildlife Explorers, said: “This is your opportunity to do something great for nature. Taking part is easy.
“Every count is important, so don’t worry if you don’t see anything. Observing which birds aren’t around is as important as seeing the ones that are.
“You can submit your results online at rspb.org. uk/birdwatch or by post.
“Over the last 40 years, 137 million birds have been counted, giving the RSPB an astonishing amount of insight into how our wildlife is faring.”
Entry to the talks is free but donations are welcome.