This is the month for birdwatching (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

This is the month for birdwatching

PEOPLE across the Cotswolds are being asked to get their binoculars ready for a nationwide birdwatch taking place later this month.

The Big Garden Birdwatch is being held over the weekend of January 28 and 29 across the country and national bird charity the RSPB is asking everyone to get involved.

In addition the RSPB Big Schools' Birdwatch is being held from January 23 until February 3.

During the Big Garden Birdwatch members of the public are asked to count all the birds in their back garden or local park for one hour during the weekend and record the highest number of each species seen during that time.

Lousie Bates from the RSPB said: "Big Garden Birdwatch is great fun and is an ideal activity for the whole family. It's the perfect way to relax and learn about birds and conservation."

Last year more than 4,800 people across Gloucestershire took part in the survey and the information used helps bird experts determine the state of the UK's bird life.

House sparrows were the most popular bird seen in the county in 2005's survey, with Blue Tits coming a close runner up.

The main aim is to find out which birds are the most common garden visitors and which species are struggling.

For more details about the Big Garden Birdwatch or the Big Schools' Birdwatch visit www.rspb.org.uk or call 0870 600 7108.