Nature charity seeks local wildlife watchers

East County Down is one of the charity’s focus areas as it’s a stronghold for threatened seed-eating birds like yellowhammers, reed buntings and linnets.

RSPB NI conservation advisor Laura Hopkins explains: “We’re conducting surveys to get an idea of local bird populations, particularly priority seed-eating species like yellowhammers.

“Their numbers have declined rapidly in recent years, largely due to changes in and use and a subsequent shortage of food. They are now red-listed (of highest conservation concern) in the UK and Ireland.

She added: “We want to find out where these birds are breeding so we can focus our efforts on these sites and give advice to local farmers on how to help, while still maintaining a profitable farm business.

“For example, taking small steps like sowing seed-rich crops can make a huge difference for hungry birds.”

Surveys will be delivered between mid-April and mid-July and, when complete, farmers will receive tailored advice on how to best manage the habitat for the species recorded.

Surveys should take no more than four hours, and each farm needs to be surveyed once in April, twice in May, and once in June, with at least two weeks between each visit.

Don’t worry if your bird ID skills leave a little to be desired – full training will be provided.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer surveyor, please contact [email protected] or call 07703 607626.